New research from Stitch, based on feedback from more than 3,000 South African consumers, highlights how quickly shopping and payment behaviour is evolving across the country.
The findings point towards growing comfort with digital payments, increased adoption of alternative payment methods and a continued shift towards online and cross-border commerce.
Some of the key findings include:
• 93.3% of consumers tried a new payment method in the past year, with digital wallets leading adoption
• 71% of credit-active consumers now use Buy Now Pay Later in some form, including for everyday purchases
• Nearly half of online shoppers now purchase from international low-cost platforms such as Temu and Shein
• 62.5% of digitally active consumers now shop online as much as or more than in-store
• Social commerce continues to grow, with 26.9% of consumers buying directly through platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and WhatsApp
The report also explores income-based shopping trends, AI-influenced commerce behaviour and the growing role of embedded digital payment experiences in South Africa’s retail landscape.
Read the full report here: https://consumer-report-2026.stitch.money/
