A Shoprite store in Bronkhorstspruit was forced to shut last week after the City of Tshwane found it was operating without valid trading permits. The closure forms part of the city’s ongoing Clean Governance and Law Enforcement Campaign, which aims to ensure businesses comply with local regulations.
Mayor leads crackdown
Mayor Nasiphi Moya personally oversaw the operation, warning that no business is exempt from Tshwane’s rules. “If you want to trade in Tshwane, you must comply with our regulations,” she said. The shutdown also affected a nearby KFC outlet, which was similarly found without updated permits.
The city has indicated that the Shoprite Group could face further penalties for allowing its franchise outlets to operate without proper authorization.
Ongoing enforcement initiatives
This closure is part of a wider effort to improve compliance across Tshwane. Earlier operations targeted areas like Hammanskraal and the Pretoria CBD, and in August, the Marabastad retail market was partially shut down after inspections revealed multiple permit violations.
During those inspections, 341 premises were checked, with 166 failing to meet standards, resulting in 135 statutory notices and fines totaling R125,000. Some businesses were also disconnected from illegal electricity connections.
Backlash and concerns
Despite the city’s strict approach, critics argue that abrupt closures harm employees and small traders. Earlier this year, a Mamelodi store successfully challenged a closure in court, with the ruling affirming that enforcement must be fair and not arbitrary.
The Democratic Alliance has voiced concerns over the city’s methods, calling for a balanced approach that enforces regulations while protecting jobs. The party emphasized that support mechanisms should help businesses comply rather than penalize them harshly.
Shoprite responds
Shoprite stated that its Bronkhorstspruit branch did not receive a formal prohibition notice from any regulators and questioned the necessity of the closure.
As Tshwane continues its Clean Governance Campaign, the tension between regulatory enforcement and protecting local employment remains a hot topic.
