Township delivery services are not just about convenience; they are pivotal in driving numerous socio-economic advantages. Delving beneath the surface of these services reveals a thriving industry that fosters employment, generates income, enhances mobility, contributes to crime reduction, and bolsters local businesses.
According to Mpudi Maubane, National PR, Communications & Sponsorships Manager at The SPAR Group, the impact of township delivery services becomes apparent when considering the pioneering efforts of entrepreneurs like Godiragetse Mogajane of Delivery KA Speed SA and Freddy Mahhumane of KasiD. These trailblazers have transformed the landscape of food and grocery delivery in townships, with ambitions for national and international expansion.
Mogajane and Mahhumane recognised that traditional delivery services often overlooked township opportunities due to various challenges such as navigating areas with inadequate infrastructure and high crime rates. To address these hurdles, they adopted a localised approach, hiring residents who possess invaluable knowledge of the area and partnering with locally based entities like SPAR through its home delivery service and app, SPAR2U.
The SPAR Group, renowned for its community-based stores, was quick to recognise the potential of grocery deliveries in township settings. By offering delivery services, SPAR2U not only enhances convenience but also alleviates the financial burden on residents who would otherwise spend significant amounts on transport to access stores.
Initiating these delivery services meant sourcing local talent. Both companies identified unemployed youth from townships, providing them with employment opportunities and avenues for personal development. Innovative ownership schemes facilitated the acquisition of delivery vehicles, empowering employees and fostering financial independence.
“The success of Delivery KA Speed and KasiD in townships underscores the transformative potential of community-focused initiatives enabled through partnerships such as these with SPAR2U”, says Maubane. With a combined workforce of hundreds of riders, these companies have not only facilitated the delivery of goods but have also contributed to skill development and educational pursuits among employees.
Additionally, both companies are deeply committed to community engagement and giving back. Initiatives range from providing internet access to local schools to organising events like the Township Restaurant Expo, aimed at empowering aspiring entrepreneurs.
Looking ahead, the vision for both pioneers extend beyond national borders. Plans for expansion into neighbouring countries like Namibia and Botswana are underway, alongside efforts to integrate digital payment solutions to enhance customer experience.
Mogajane and Mahhumane emphasise the symbiotic relationship between their ventures and SPAR2U, highlighting the retailer’s commitment to empowering local communities and supporting entrepreneurial endeavours.
“As township delivery services continue to evolve, they serve as a catalyst for socio-economic progress fostering empowerment, and community development, which mirrors the ethos of the SPAR brand”, concludes Maubane.
SPAR2U is currently live in 459 SPAR stores nationwide – including KWIKSPAR, SPAR, SUPERSPAR and TOPS at SPAR stores – and serves the following areas in partnership with KasiD and Delivery KA Speed SA: Kempton Park, Kaalfontein, Ivory Park, Mamelodi, Glen Marais and Hammanskraal in Pretoria.
Residents in these areas and other areas can easily access SPAR2U by downloading the app and placing an order from their favourite store. The SPAR2U basket limit is 60 items (but shoppers can order multiple units of each item) and the minimum spend for deliveries is R100.
