South African homeowners involved in the growing short-term rental market are being urged to strengthen security measures as reports of theft, fraud and suspicious bookings linked to Airbnb-style properties continue to rise. Industry experts say the rapid growth of short-term accommodation platforms has created new opportunities for criminals, with some exploiting weak identity checks, third-party…
South African consumers are becoming increasingly cautious with their finances, yet new data shows they are still willing to spend on health-related products and everyday indulgences. A recent SpendTrend26 report by Discovery Bank, which analysed consumer behaviour between 2021 and 2025, highlights a shift towards more deliberate and strategic spending habits among higher-income earners. The…
South Africa’s electric vehicle market has entered a new phase of price competition after Chinese automaker Geely Auto launched its latest all-electric hatchback, the E2, with a starting price of R339,900. The launch positions the vehicle as one of the most affordable mainstream EVs currently available in the country and places direct pressure on competitors…
South African consumers may soon face renewed pressure at the supermarket as rising global energy and agricultural input costs threaten to push food prices higher. According to the latest Absa AgriTrends report, ongoing instability in the Middle East is increasing fuel, fertiliser and logistics costs across the agricultural supply chain, raising the likelihood of food…
Woolworths is preparing to expand its school tuck shop footprint across South Africa following strong demand from schools, parents and learners. The premium food retailer has already launched branded tuck shops at two schools in Cape Town, with early pilot projects showing significant traction. The first Woolworths-operated school tuck shop opened in 2023 at Springfield…
Imported beauty and skincare products continue to dominate retail shelves across South Africa, as demand for scientifically backed skincare drives one of the country’s fastest-growing consumer sectors. New data from the Observatory of Economic Complexity shows that international brands account for roughly 90% of beauty and skincare sales in the country, highlighting the strong influence…
Uber has announced plans to invest R5 billion in South Africa over the coming years, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the country’s transport, delivery and digital economy sectors. The investment, unveiled in the context of the 2026 South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC), is expected to strengthen employment opportunities, support township enterprises and accelerate innovation in…
Chicken remains the most popular fast food choice in South Africa, significantly outperforming other categories, according to new consumer data analysing national eating habits. A recent report by Eighty20 found that chicken-based quick service restaurant (QSR) chains attract roughly twice as many customers as pizza-focused outlets. Brands such as KFC and Chicken Licken continue to…
South Africa is moving to tighten oversight of income generated in the digital economy, with online content creators and social media influencers increasingly falling under the spotlight of tax authorities. The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has identified digital creators as a key segment for improving tax compliance, reflecting the rapid growth of online income…
South Africa has been ranked among the lower half of countries in the latest global happiness rankings, reflecting ongoing challenges in life satisfaction despite broader regional comparisons. According to the 2026 World Happiness Report, the country placed 101st out of 147 nations, based on average life evaluations collected between 2023 and 2025. The report is…
