Clicks plans 10 new store concepts as expansion drive gains speed in South Africa

Clicks Group is betting that growth still exists in a pressured economy.

The retailer says it will launch 10 differentiated concept stores in the second half of 2026 while continuing a wider rollout of traditional outlets and pharmacies across the country. The move comes after the group crossed the 1,000-store mark, ending the first half of its financial year with 1,003 stores and 795 pharmacies.

For shoppers, it signals that one of South Africa’s most recognisable retail brands is trying to evolve beyond the familiar blue-and-white aisle experience.

What are the new Clicks concept stores?

Clicks has not yet revealed full details of the 10 pilot formats, but the company says they will be “differentiated concept stores.” In retail language, that usually means testing new layouts, services, product mixes or customer experiences before a national rollout.

That could include stronger wellness zones, expanded beauty offerings, faster pharmacy services, digital self-service tools or health-focused convenience models.

In many South African malls and suburban centres, consumers increasingly want speed and value in one stop. Clicks appears to be designing for that shift.

Bigger expansion plans for 2026

Alongside the concept stores, Clicks plans to open:

• 40 to 50 new stores
• 40 to 50 new pharmacies
• Refurbish 80 to 90 stores
• Spend R1.3 billion in capital investment

Of that total, R663 million is earmarked for new stores, pharmacies and upgrades.

The company is also holding onto its medium-term target of 1,200 stores, showing confidence in long-term demand.

Strong loyalty numbers keep Clicks ahead

One of Clicks’ biggest strengths remains its rewards ecosystem.

Its ClubCard active membership grew by 800,000 customers to 12.9 million, with loyalty members accounting for 83.7% of sales.

During the six-month period, shoppers received R527 million in cashback rewards.

That helps explain why many South Africans still joke online that “everyone has a ClubCard” and many do.

Financial performance stays solid

Despite pressure on household budgets, Clicks reported:

• Turnover up 7.4% to R24.9 billion
• Headline earnings up 6.4% to R1.5 billion
• Earnings per share up 8.1% to 653 cents

Pharmacy sales rose 8.6%, while retail pharmacy market share improved to 24.9%.

That matters because medicine and healthcare spending often remains more stable than purely discretionary shopping.

Cape Town supply issues hurt festive season sales

The retailer admitted delays linked to a distribution centre implementation in Cape Town reduced stock availability in Western Cape and Eastern Cape stores, especially during the festive season.

Management estimates the issue cost about R175 million in retail turnover.

By the end of February, product availability had returned to planned levels.

Pressure still lies ahead

Clicks says consumers are expected to remain under strain in the second half of the year. Rising fuel prices and inflation linked to global tensions are squeezing disposable income.

That means shoppers may continue prioritising essentials, promotions and loyalty rewards over impulse buys.

Why this expansion matters

When a major chain expands during economic pressure, it often signals confidence in future demand. It can also create jobs, improve pharmacy access and reshape competition in local retail centres.

For many communities, a new Clicks store is more than another shop opening it often means easier access to medication, toiletries, beauty products and everyday essentials.

Clicks is not standing still. While many retailers focus on survival, the group is testing new formats, adding pharmacies and investing heavily in growth.

The next question is whether South Africans, squeezed by rising living costs, will reward that bet.

{Source: BusinessTech}

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