South Africa’s leading retail groups are showing strong confidence in the local market by planning to open more than 600 new stores across the country. According to a recent article by BusinessTech, Pepkor, The Foschini Group, and the Mr Price Group are aggressively expanding their footprints in both urban centres and smaller communities.
These expansions are not only good news for local economies and job seekers - they also offer shoppers using an RCS Store Card access to even more convenience.
A Closer Look at the Retailers Powering the Growth
According to BusinessTech, Pepkor - which owns brands like Ackermans, Tekkie Town, and PEP - is planning to significantly expand its store count. The group already operates more than 5,800 stores nationwide. Meanwhile, The Foschini Group (TFG), which owns popular brands such as Foschini, Exact, @home, and Sportscene, is also actively growing its national footprint. They also expect continued growth through their online shopping platform, Bash. Lastly, Mr Price Group, which includes Mr Price, Mr Price Home, and Sheet Street, has crossed the 3,000-store threshold and is planning to add an additional 200 stores in the coming financial year.
Despite slow GDP growth and mounting economic pressure, these retail giants are focusing their efforts on affordability and value for money - segments that remain resilient even in challenging times.
What This Means for RCS Store Cardholders
With Mr Price and Foschini Group both part of the RCS Shopping Network, this expansion offers RCS customers even more places to shop using their store cards. This means greater access to everyday essentials, fashion, homeware, and lifestyle products without the need to open additional retail accounts. Whether it’s upgrading your wardrobe at Sportscene, furnishing your living room from @home, or grabbing seasonal specials at Mr Price, your RCS Store Card gives you the flexibility to buy now and pay later in easy instalments.
As these retailers expand into new areas - including townships and peri-urban centres - RCS cardholders will find it easier than ever to access their favourite brands and enjoy the benefits of interest-free periods, promotional offers, and fast checkouts. More store locations mean less travel, greater convenience, and more opportunities to make the most of your RCS Store Card throughout the year.
PEP Stores
While Pepkor is playing a major role in the retail rollout—particularly through PEP stores—it’s important to note that PEP stores are not currently included in the RCS Shopping Network, which means you won’t be able to use your RCS Store Card at PEP at this time.
A Win for Budget-Savvy Consumers
With the continued expansion of affordable retail, this development couldn’t come at a better time. Households are under pressure, and being able to access trusted brands with a financial tool like the RCS Store Card provides a much-needed buffer. The ability to buy essentials and other goods while spreading out payments over manageable terms helps families budget more effectively, especially during high-spend seasons like back-to-school and the December holidays.
Shoppers who use their RCS Store Card wisely - by paying on time and taking advantage of zero-interest periods - can also improve their credit profile. This opens the door to higher spending limits, better financial products, and greater financial mobility in the long run.
Other Sectors
Although this is a big expansion in the clothing sector, this trend is not following in the food retailer space – with the likes of Pick n Pay Stores Ltd and Spar Group Ltd expecting somewhat stagnant growth over the next 12 months.
Considering the added convenience and enhanced shopping options that could be just around the corner from you over the next few months, there’s been no better time than now to consider an RCS Store Card. Application can be done quickly and easily online, and a provisional answer in minutes. And aside from the new stores coming, the RCS Shopping Network already boasts over 30 000 stores around South Africa where the RCS Store Card is accepted for payment. To find out more, or even start your application online, head to the RCS website now.
