The Shoprite Group has showcased the capabilities of the retail giant’s newest addition to its network of 29 distribution centres across South Africa: the state-of-the-art Riverfields facility.
Shoprite said there was no better time to show off the new facility with its Checkers’ XXL Savings currently taking place.
Shoprite said that this year’s promotion promises to deliver over R45 million in savings to customers daily.
“Last year’s XXL campaign was a resounding success, moving an astonishing 3 million litres of milk, 55 tonnes of instant coffee, and 650 tonnes of cheese—enough dairy to outweigh three Boeing 747s. With an extensive range of new deals across key categories including groceries, baby products, general merchandise, and liquor, Shoprite aims to surpass the record volumes achieved in 2024,” the group said.
At the forefront of this massive undertaking is the Riverfields Distribution Centre (DC) in Kempton Park, Ekurhuleni.
Strategically positioned to serve over 500 supermarkets across Gauteng, this advanced 94,000 m² facility is expected to meet the peak demand of the XXL campaign.
The centre’s operational capacity allows for 220 trucks to be on-site at any given time, optimising logistics by shortening delivery routes, which in turn reduces transport costs and carbon emissions.
Andrew Havinga, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Shoprite Group, highlighted the innovation behind their logistics.
“By optimising the distance between supplier, DC and store, we’ve created the shortest and most responsive supply chain in South Africa,” Havinga said.
This efficient system is bolstered by real-time tracking, predictive analytics, and high-efficiency sortation technologies, ensuring customers receive the freshest and highest quality products daily.
The Riverfields DC operates with an impressive selection of over 16,000 products, ranging from dry goods to perishables and convenience meals, including approximately 700 varieties of fresh fruit and vegetables.
“Riverfields was designed to support high-volume trading periods like the Checkers XXL promotion,” even as it lays the groundwork for the company’s long-term commitment to infrastructure investment, enhanced supply chain capabilities, and job creation,” Havinga added.
The introduction of the Riverfields DC has resulted in the creation of around 1,700 job opportunities, with 750 roles filled by local residents in a community grappling with an unemployment rate nearing 37%.
The Shoprite Group’s distribution centres across the country employ around 10,000 individuals, encompassing roles in warehousing, driving, and support services.
As South Africa’s retail landscape evolves, the Shoprite Group is poised to leverage technological advancements, operational efficiencies, and community engagement to redefine the shopping experience while supporting economic growth within its operating regions.
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