Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in South Africa, which employ approximately 50% of the country’s workforce, play a crucial role in the economy.
However, many face challenges in adopting digital tools and accessing e-commerce opportunities.
To support these businesses, Amazon South Africa has launched the Amazon Seller Success Centre, a new initiative aimed at helping local businesses grow and reach more customers.
Located at Amazon’s Cape Town headquarters, the Centre offers a range of services, including on-the-spot registration for Amazon.co.za, interactive training tools, in-person webinars, networking event facilities, product imaging and cataloguing support, and shipping and logistics assistance.
The Centre is open to all entrepreneurs and businesses eager to explore selling opportunities on Amazon’s platform.
Robert Koen, Managing Director of Amazon Sub-Saharan Africa, expressed excitement about introducing the walk-in seller hub to small businesses, emphasising that the initiative underscores Amazon’s commitment to fostering local business growth and contributing to the country’s digital economy.
Bridging the digital divide for small businesses
“By providing hands-on support and resources, we aim to bridge the technological divide for those who have historically lacked access to e-commerce opportunities,” Koen explained. “We also recognise the importance of in-person interactions to make it easier for South African small businesses to fully capitalise on the opportunities available through Amazon’s platform.”
The launch of the Centre comes at a crucial time for South Africa’s SMME sector, which contributes about 34% to the country’s GDP but faces barriers to digital adoption due to limited access to technology and skills.
The Centre provides tools and resources to empower sellers and small businesses, helping them overcome these challenges.
Staffed by experts in various aspects of Amazon’s services, the Centre offers in-depth guidance on seller account management and onboarding. Additionally, it will host monthly selling partner connect sessions to foster networking and peer-to-peer learning.
Nikki Robertson, founder of ethical-luxe beaded jewelry brand Zulu Mien, shared her experience: “Amazon has supported me every step of the way in becoming an online seller. Managing my business is challenging, but their guidance has been invaluable in reaching more customers and empowering rural women artisans.”
As part of its commitment to local sellers, Amazon South Africa also announced plans to host its first-ever Seller Summit in the first half of the year.
The summit will provide exclusive content, highlight the latest tools and innovations, and feature networking opportunities and expert-led training sessions.
“The Amazon Seller Success Centre is a launchpad for local businesses looking to succeed in the digital marketplace,” said Suzelle Abe, Head of Marketplace, Amazon South Africa.
“Based on feedback from our sellers, we want to provide businesses of all sizes with the resources they need to navigate the digital space and connect with more customers. This initiative helps small businesses scale both locally and globally, while enriching the customer experience. Ultimately, we aim to foster a thriving seller community that contributes to the country’s prosperity.”
Main Image: Image supplied
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