The small cooking appliances market in South Africa demonstrated robust growth in 2025, with a 5% increase in retail volume terms, reaching 5.4 million units. This growth was driven by strong performances across key categories, particularly air fryers, and was supported by a steady increase in median disposable income per household. Despite subdued consumer confidence, the demand for small cooking appliances persisted, driven by their affordability and the trend towards convenience and smart fun

The microwaves market in South Africa demonstrated steady growth in 2025, driven by the affordability and multi-functionality of these appliances. With the urban population expanding and median disposable income per household rising, consumers are increasingly adopting microwaves, particularly freestanding models, which accounted for the overwhelming majority of overall category sales. The market is expected to continue its growth trajectory, with a forecast CAGR of 3% to reach 1.3 million units

Consumer appliances in South Africa experienced positive growth in 2025, driven by shifting consumer preferences, improved economic conditions and increasing disposable incomes. The market is expected to record steady growth over the forecast period, driven by the adoption of smart technology, energy-efficient products and rising urbanisation. Brands that adapt to changing consumer preferences and invest in digital marketing and e-commerce are likely to outperform their competitors. The demand f

The home laundry appliances market in South Africa demonstrated resilience and potential for further growth in 2025, driven by stabilising economic conditions, technological innovation and evolving consumer preferences. Growth of 3% was recorded in retail volume terms, with automatic washing machines still the leading category, but semi-automatic washing machines most dynamic. Automatic washer dryers were also growing, favoured for their energy efficiency and convenience. The market is expected

The vacuum cleaners market in South Africa recorded positive growth in 2025, driven by increasing consumer awareness of cleanliness and the introduction of specialised and technologically advanced models. Rising median disposable income per household in 2025 and a slow but steady increase in vacuum cleaner penetration among households saw the market enjoy continued expansion. The dominance of cylinder vacuum cleaners and the growing popularity of robotic vacuum cleaners, which recorded double-di

The food preparation appliances market in South Africa demonstrated resilience in 2025, with growth driven by consumers’ increasing preference for home cooking due to the rising cost of living and a focus on health and wellness. The median disposable income per household rose, supporting demand for appliances like blenders, mixers and food processors. With the employed female population also growing, dual-income households are likely driving the demand for convenient and efficient food preparati

The personal care appliances market in South Africa demonstrated modest growth in 2025, driven by the continued strength of hair care appliances and increasing consumer interest in personal grooming. The market is expected to remain attractive due to forecast growth in retail volume terms, driven by rising disposable incomes and consumer demand for innovative products. Other key drivers include the rise of influencer-led marketing, innovations in health-focused features, and the growing populari

The large cooking appliances market in South Africa recorded 3% volume growth in 2025, driven by consumer demand for energy-efficient and smart appliances. In 2025, cookers remained the largest category due to the versatility and perceived value for money of these products. The ongoing challenges in the national electricity supply are driving consumers towards gas-powered or hybrid cooking solutions, with products like induction cooktops and gas-electric hybrids becoming increasingly popular. As

The South African refrigeration appliances market recorded 2% volume growth in 2025, driven by increasing demand for energy-efficient and smart models. This trend is expected to continue, with the market expected to record a CAGR of 3% over the forecast period. Key drivers include rising median disposable income per household and a growing urban population. The competitive landscape is dominated by the leading brands, with Defy, KIC and Hisense holding more than 80% of the market share, benefiti

The dishwashers market in South Africa recorded 3% retail volume growth in 2025, driven by easing inflation and interest rates, and growing demand for convenience among dual-income urban households. With dishwasher penetration remaining relatively low at 5% of households, there is significant potential for further growth. The market is expected to continue growing, with a forecast CAGR of 9%, driven by increasing demand for convenience, hygiene and energy-efficient appliances. To succeed, brands

The air conditioners market in South Africa exhibited strong growth in 2025, driven by increasing demand for portable room air conditioners and split air conditioners. This growth is attributed to economic conditions, evolving consumer preferences towards sustainability and smart functionality, and regulatory shifts promoting energy efficiency. The market is expected to continue growing over the forecast period, driven by increasing demand for eco-friendly and smart solutions. With median dispos

The writing instruments market in South Africa demonstrated resilience in 2025, recording growth in retail volume and in retail value, driven by trends such as market polarisation. The category is characterised by intense competition, with e-commerce platforms like Shein offering affordable and trendy products, forcing traditional retailers to adapt their pricing and product offerings. To succeed, brands should focus on differentiation through unique product offerings and social responsibility i

The personal accessories category in South Africa is experiencing significant growth, driven by younger consumers and the increasing acceptance of second-hand fashion, with retail value sales reaching ZAR32.6 billion in 2025, representing 9% growth from the previous year. This growth is driven by economic pressures and rising living costs, making consumers more price-sensitive and inclined towards value-focused and affordable luxury items. To succeed in this category, brands should focus on offe

The bags and luggage category in South Africa demonstrated resilience in 2025 as value growth increased, driven by market polarisation and the rising popularity of resale and rental platforms. This growth is expected to continue into 2030, driven by increasing demand for affordable and sustainable products. The market's attractiveness is underscored by its fragmentation, with opportunities for brands to innovate and adapt to changing consumer preferences. Key to success will be strategies that b

The jewellery category in South Africa experienced growth in 2025, driven by the rising popularity of lab-grown diamonds and fine jewellery being viewed as an investment potential. The number of high net worth individuals (HNWIs) grew to 5.6 million, supporting a potential market for luxury and investment-grade jewellery. Fine jewellery is increasingly being viewed as a long-term investment rather than a short-term luxury purchase, driven by economic uncertainty and rising living costs. The mark

The childrenswear market in South Africa demonstrated resilience in 2025, with a 7% growth rate, reaching ZAR40 billion in retail value, driven by rising disposable incomes in dual-income households, and the influence of social media and television on young children. This growth trajectory is expected to continue, with a forecast CAGR of 6% through to 2030, driven by a growing focus on sustainability and increased interest in premium niche brands that focus on community and environmental engagem

South Africa's footwear market demonstrated resilience and continued growth in 2025, even amid economic headwinds. Driven by consumers’ replacement needs and aspirational consumers supporting international brands like Nike and adidas, footwear is expected to continue on a growth trajectory. The fitness and athleisure trend has significantly influenced the category, with consumers seeking comfortable and stylish footwear for both exercise and daily wear. The market is characterised by a mix of gl

Menswear in South Africa demonstrated resilience in 2025, with retail value sales reaching ZAR49 billion, representing growth of 5%. This growth was driven by consumers seeking affordable and versatile styles that can transition seamlessly from formal to casual wear, as well as using credit to increase purchasing power. The category is expected to continue growing, with a forecast CAGR of 6% to ZAR65 billion by 2030. The attractiveness of this market lies in its ability to adapt to consumer need

The apparel accessories market in South Africa experienced rather sluggish growth in 2025, lower than the growth in total consumer expenditure on clothing and footwear, which was 4%. This disparity indicates that apparel accessories are considered non-essential items, making them more vulnerable to economic downturns. The market is characterised by polarisation, with consumers either downtrading to cheaper brands or opting for pre-loved designer alternatives. Pure online e-commerce players are d

Apparel and footwear in South Africa experienced favourable growth in 2025, regardless of economic factors and due to market polarisation, with consumers both seeking status pieces and increasingly prioritising affordability, the rise of athleisure trends, and aspirational spending. With a current retail value of ZAR235 billion in 2025, the market is expected to grow at a current value CAGR of 6% to ZAR317 billion by 2030, driven by factors such as affordability, strategic positioning by leading

Sportswear in South Africa experienced healthy growth in 2025, driven by rising health and wellness awareness, the increased adoption of active lifestyles, and a growing middle class with higher disposable incomes. In 2025, sportswear recorded a value of ZAR60 billion, and is expected to achieve ZAR89 billion by 2030. Sportswear is moderately concentrated, with the top companies of adidas and Nike being the only names to hold double-digit shares, with the remainder of the category fragmented. Ho

The hosiery market in South Africa experienced steady growth in 2025, driven by polarised consumer preferences for affordable options and innovative, trendy styles. Sheer hosiery remains the best performing category, with extended replacement cycles slowing growth in non-sheer hosiery. There are opportunities for brands that innovate and focus on fashionable designs. The market remains fragmented, with Pep leading due to its affordable ranges. To succeed, brands should prioritise innovation, des

Womenswear in South Africa recorded healthy growth despite negative economic indicators in 2025. Regulatory changes, a shift in consumer behaviour, and aggressive promotional strategies are major trends influencing the market. In 2025, womenswear achieved a retail value of ZAR57 billion, representing a 6% growth rate. This growth is supported by an increasing employed female population, while regulatory changes have levelled the playing field for local retailers, allowing them to regain market s

Jeans in South Africa is characterised by growth driven by economic pressures and changing consumer behaviours, increasing the polarised nature of consumer demands. With a retail value of ZAR11 billion in 2025, the market is expected to continue growing, driven by increased category segments and the demand for sustainable and inclusive products, with a forecast CAGR of 6%. To succeed, brands should prioritise sustainability, inclusivity, and omnichannel retailing, while capitalising on the growi