“More Job Opportunities”: Mzansi Reacts to Walmart Coming to South Africa

• Waca went viral while leaving netizens divided
• The viral post sparked excitement, curiosity, and concerns about its impact on local businesses, going viral
• The conversation showed how South Africans see global brands as both an opportunity and a challenge

South Africans reacted strongly to Walmart’s entry into the country, sparking debates about affordability, jobs, and local competition.

On 9 September 2025, a TikTok user @shaneyvije posted a video announcing Walmart’s entry into South Africa, which quickly gained over 10,000 likes and 500 comments. The news spread quickly across social media, sparking mixed emotions from excitement to scepticism. For many, it marked a major development in the retail space that could impact pricing, jobs, and competition with local stores.

The reactions highlighted the divided opinions South Africans have when global brands arrive. Some viewed it as an opportunity for affordable shopping options, while others worried about the effects on small businesses. The sheer scale of Walmart’s presence internationally added weight to the conversation, as many tried to imagine how it would reshape the local market.

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Walmart is set to launch its first official stores in South Africa before the close of 2025, signalling a major step in the U.S. retailer’s African journey. The expansion will allow the brand to tap into South Africa’s expanding consumer base, where affordable groceries, home essentials, and tech products are in high demand.

Walmart’s entry sparks debate among South Africans

Social media became the platform where South Africans expressed their curiosity, humour, and concerns about the announcement. Many pointed out that global giants often bring both opportunities and challenges when entering a new space. The TikTok post captured these mixed feelings, making it one of the day’s most discussed topics online.

The excitement and concern around Walmart’s arrival highlighted how deeply South Africans care about the retail landscape. For many, the conversation was less about the brand itself and more about what its presence means for local jobs and economic competition.

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Mzansi reacted to the video

Cathryn commented:

“I need Sephora.”

Luh Mpanza wrote:

“They better not bring powdered eggs and mayo slices. 😭😭”

Kat wrote:

“South Africa = Cape Town.”

Reatlegilek said:

“No, we have Makro, we are fine. Bring Wingstop, Chipotle, Crumbl Cookie, something, not this hle. 😭”

Dezeré Coetzer commented:

“Hopefully, they sell more than just South African products.”

Bee wrote:

“I’m waiting for Target. 🥹”

Olebogeng Rangaka said:

“I hope they’re gonna have all those products we don’t have.”

Trevy commented:

“They’re going to sell us sliced milk. 👀”

Check out the TikTok video below:

3 Briefly News stories about Walmart

• Walmart's profits tripled to $5.1 billion for the quarter ending 2024 on a six per cent rise in revenues to $161.5 billion.
• Walmart cut its profit outlook in 2022 as surging inflation prompts shoppers to cut back on higher-margin items as they contend with increased prices.
• Walmart raised its full-year forecast in 2023 following a jump in quarterly profits, pointing to solid increases at US stores and e-commerce.

Source: Briefly News