The South African FMCG landscape is characterised by increasing complexity and rapid shifts in channels and formats. As the year draws to a close and plans for next year are being locked in, the big question on everyone’s minds is: "Where should we be hedging our bets in 2026?"
A static view of the market can lead to underperformance. To mitigate this risk, you must determine whether the channels you plan to invest in will help you reach your growth targets, while taking into account the external and macroeconomic dynamics in this ever-changing industry.
What are the directional shifts that local retailers and brands need to monitor to stay ahead of the game?
We address these pertinent questions in the Trade Intelligence Retail Outlook 2026 report and presentation, your essential kick-off for the year ahead. It gives you the forward-looking context to validate your plans, mitigate risk, and translate market data into definitive, actionable strategies.
Book EARLY: Due to high demand for our analysts’ time, sessions fill up quickly. We encourage you to book your session immediately to secure your dedicated slot.
To inquire about pricing, available dates, and to book, contact boitumelo@tradeintelligence.co.za.
Which channels are you betting on in 2026?
Are you betting on the right channels in 2026? Ti’s FMCG Market Size & Channel Architecture Report reveals where the market momentum currently lies.
This SA FMCG Channel Performance chart visually maps the market’s shopper channels, highlighting the three fastest-growing ones – E-commerce, Discounters, and Health & Personal Care Specialist retailers.
E-commerce continues its high-momentum trajectory, with growth surpassing initial forecasts despite starting from a base of around 3% of the total FMCG market in 2024. Simultaneously, Discounters are poised for significant expansion, projected to achieve a robust annualised growth over the next three years that will outpace total market estimates. Finally, Health and Personal Care Specialists are engaging in aggressive footprint expansion, while typical grocery FMCG retailers are also expanding their health and personal care offerings.
When analysing growth, however, it is important to consider the critical size difference between these fast-growing channels and the larger ones. Trade investment decisions and growth plans must not only account for the growth outlook but also the "size of the prize”. E-commerce, for instance, may offer the highest percentage growth, but this is coming off a significantly smaller base compared to the rest of the market. This duality and alignment with your business strategies underscore the necessity for granular market sizing before committing final resources.
Translating Insight into a Winning Wager
Gain true commercial value by translating insights into a winning growth plan execution for the evolving FMCG landscape. To find out more about the Trade Intelligence Retail Outlook 2026 and book your time with our expert analysts
