The pandemic has been particularly brutal on small businesses and supply chains, with many struggling to keep their heads above water. Thankfully, “big fish” retailers may be coming to the rescue with their supplier development and enterprise development programmes.
The big fish in question? Shoprite Holdings, Food Lover’s Market, Pick n Pay, and Massmart is offering up the secret to getting your small business’ goods on the shelves of these large retailers. Listen up little fish, because here’s what you’ll need to consider to get your products sold, as per Business Insider:
Food Lover’s Market
In 2021, Food Lover’s Market received 839 applications from interested businesses who registered through their Seeds of Change Supplier Development Partnership which was launched in January. Unfortunately, applications have closed. However, businesses are encouraged to approach the buyers of the food retailer directly, states Business Insider.
Interested? Simply fill in a form and ensure that you meet the following requirements:
- Your business should already be trading
- The produce or service that you supply should align with products already found within Food Lover’s stores.
Massmart
If you’re eager to get your products on the shelves of big names, such as Makro, Builders Warehouse and Game, there’s no better time than right now. Small businesses are encouraged to approach Massmart directly. However, you’ll need to consider the following:
- There must be customer demand for the product
- It should be typically stocked by these retailers
- It needs to comply with the regulatory requirements that control the quality and safety of the product.
Have a product that meets the above requirements? Keep in mind that your product has to be priced to or similar to products already sold by competitors. Thankfully, Massmart does give preference to small suppliers who are eager to grow their supply over time.
Shoprite
Shoprite Holdings appears to be spearheading the campaign to connect small suppliers with the right people, including themselves. The retailer has approximately 20 000 suppliers that range from micro to national, and are passionate about connecting these growing businesses with investors.
Thankfully, they’re always looking to diversify their supply network, so here’s what you need to do to apply:
- Give a detailed explanation of your product or business
- If you’re a good fit for the Shoprite model, buyers will review and get back to you
- Once you meet all the requirements, you’re almost a Shoprite Holdings supplier!
Pick n Pay
“Innovative and unique offerings” – if these words perfectly describe your product, then Pick n Pay should be your next stop. The retail giant boasts two incredible programmes aimed at bringing local products to their shelves. These include their Pick n Pay Supplier Development (ESD) and Pick Local programmes. The former gives small suppliers the tools and training required to ensure they become “successful and sustainable suppliers,” states Business Insider.
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