SA retailer Shoprite expands clothing offering

South Africa's retail giant Shoprite has ventured into the clothing market with the launch of their 20th clothing store in Sandton City, introducing a new brand called Uniq. The brand's promise of providing quality clothing at lower prices has sparked interest among customers. CNBC Africa's Sally Sithole had the opportunity to witness the grand opening and engage in a conversation with Leighe Ogle, the National Operations Manager of UNIQ. Ogle expressed his enthusiasm for the store's fresh and appealing look, highlighting the quality of the clothing materials that are sure to attract a diverse range of customers. The clothing and footwear market in South Africa is known to be competitive and saturated. However, Uniq aims to stand out by offering unique, unbranded clothing items that cater to everyone, regardless of age or style preference. The store features sections for men, women, and children, ensuring a wide range of options for shoppers. In a bid to target the middle to upper end of the market, Uniq focuses on customers falling within LSM 6 to 10 categories. Their product offerings cater to individuals seeking premium basics, providing a variety of options for different family members. Ogle emphasized the importance of creating a premium feel within the store, indicating a significant investment to ensure the right ambiance for customers. Despite being in their initial year of operation, Uniq has set ambitious goals for expansion, aiming to double their store count by the year's end. The introduction of self-service checkouts incorporating technology and AI has also been a unique selling point for Uniq. This innovation not only enhances the customer experience but also improves stock management efficiency. Ogle noted that the self-service checkout does not replace human jobs; instead, it allows staff to focus on providing enhanced service on the shop floor. By streamlining stock management processes, Uniq ensures quick restocking and after-hours filling up, optimizing the overall shopping experience for customers. As the brand continues to grow, a strong focus on customer service remains at the core of Uniq's strategy, exemplifying their commitment to offering quality clothing at affordable prices.