2022 has been a transformational year for eCommerce at Massmart following initiatives that have significantly improved the online customer experience across the group’s shopping websites and apps. One result is that Massmart will maintain its 2-5 day delivery promise during the year-end peak trading period that includes Black Friday and the festive season – a time when many retailers usually extend delivery lead times in line with the increased demand.
“The changes we have made over the past 18 months have unlocked efficiencies that have helped us to consistently meet our delivery promise, even when demand increases,” says Merlin Otto, Vice-President for Pick-up and Delivery at Massmart. “Integrating Wumdrop’s same day delivery services and the ability to ship orders directly from our Distribution Centres have been game changers for us.” One further enabler has been the appointment of Regional eCommerce Managers, who are responsible for driving eCommerce operations efficiency across the group. The impact of these improvements is perhaps best seen at Makro where over 75% of all deliveries are made within 48 hours.
Commenting on the reaction to the Group’s improved platforms, Paris Philippou, Vice-President for B2C Websites at Massmart says, “Customers have loved the enhancements to our online shopping platforms this year as evidenced by the doubling of conversion rate and revenue on game.co.za since the revamped website launched in May, and the triple digit growth of the revitalised pantry and liquor categories on the Makro App, since its launch in July.”
Looking ahead to Black Friday, shoppers can expect incredibly low prices on products such as smart TVs, large and small appliances and home gym equipment. Makro will run its Black5Day promotion online and on the Makro Shopping App from 23 November and customers should keep an eye out for the “secret coupon” to score an added discount at checkout. Game, the most Googled retailer for Black Friday, will offer its largest online range ever, starting at midnight on 25 November. Their incredible Black Friday deals will be sweetened by the Game Price Beat Promise which will give customers who find the same product cheaper elsewhere, a refund of the price difference plus an additional 10%. Starting on 21 November, Builders will offer over 150 Black Friday deals with discounts of up to 50%.
“Black Friday is one of the highlights in the year for customers and retailers alike and we are determined to provide all our customers with an efficient and rewarding online shopping experience,” Philippou concludes.