By Luvolwethu Ngani
The Consumer Goods Council of South Africa (CGCSA) held its annual summit on October 8, 2025, at the Vodacom Boulevard in Midrand, Gauteng. The event, themed “Agility at the speed of chang defining tomorrow,” brought together industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders to discuss pressing issues and opportunities in the consumer goods sector.
The summit focused on critical topics including supply-chain resilience, food security, sustainability, ESG compliance, climate-smart retail, digital transformation and consumer protection, all crucial to the evolving landscape of retail and trade in South Africa. The event provided a platform for industry leaders to share insights and best practices, highlighting the need for collaboration and innovation to drive growth and sustainability.
In the discussion, which was led by the CEO of the Consumer Goods Council of South Africa (CGCSA), Zinhle Tyikwe, collaboration was at the center of everything to achieve many aspects that concern business, though unemployment continues to play a major role in achieving this goal. Totsie Memela Khumubule, Chief of Strategy and Engagement Officer Higher Ed Partners said, “Invite the young people. Give them the opportunity to learn. Provide that exposure.” said Khumubule.
The event was in partnership with leading corporations such as Shoprite,Pick n Pay, Tiger Brands, and Coca Cola Beverages South Africa together key provincial government departments and civil society stakeholders. Angelo Swartz, Chief Executive Officer of Spar Group, highlighted the importance of being complex on creating solutions in businesses, “Technology is not always the right answer. Understanding the problems are the key implementing solutions,” said Swartz. “We have to allow consumers to make a better choice.”
In addition to this, discussions on informal grocery sector revealed critical aspects of unemployment in the townships. Speakers noted that while spaza shops and informal traders play a significant role in ensuring food access and stimulating local economies, many operate under precarious conditions with limited access to finance, technology, and formal supply chains. Freddy Mahhumane who is the founder and CEO of KasiD argued on their role as local companies play in the township economy, “We are not really doing enough to impact the youth in order to participate in the economic stability of the township and across the country,” said Mahhumane. “It is very depressing to see young people at the corners doing nothing.”
Towards the end of the summit, top-ranked suppliers were awarded the Advantage Group Awards which aimed at encouraging suppliers to continue championing for the retail success in South Africa. These were in different categories including, care suppliers, personal care, chilled and frozen foods, liquor, and national grocery. Among those suppliers that won were, Shoprite-Checkers Group, Edward Snell, Checkers Sixty60 and Private Label to name few.
The summit was an educational experience for attendees, offering not only valuable insights but also practical solutions to the pressing challenges facing the consumer goods sector. Through thought-provoking discussions and expert-led panels, participants gained a deeper understanding of how collaboration, innovation, and adaptability can drive meaningful change in a rapidly evolving market. The event highlighted the importance of bridging gaps between formal and informal sectors, empowering youth, and embracing digital transformation as a catalyst for growth. Ultimately, the summit reinforced the idea that South Africa’s consumer goods industry holds immense potential – provided that stakeholders work collectively to build a more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready economy.
