Remember when a loaf of bread cost R10? Pepperidge Farm remembers. But seriously, the South African Reserve Bank’s recent report, “Tariffs on basic foods: evolution and impacts,” is a real wake-up call about the rising cost of putting food on the table.
For spaza shop owners, it’s a double whammy – wholesale prices are up, and your customers are watching every cent.
The report breaks it down: Tariffs on staple foods like the maize meal that makes your pap, the wheat that goes into your bread, and even the chicken for your Sunday lunch have shot up. They say, “from 2010 to 2020, food prices rose more rapidly than the overall CPI.”
In short: “Your money doesn’t buy what it used to.”
And guess who gets hit hardest? Yep, those already struggling to make ends meet. The report calls these tariffs a “regressive tax,” meaning they take a bigger bite out of the budgets of those who can least afford it.
But here’s where R&A steps in. We’re not just about tech; we’re about empowering spaza shops and communities, even when times are tough.
Practical Solutions for Spaza Shops in Times of Rising Costs
Spaza shop owners can directly address rising costs by offering a combination of practical solutions and relevant products. Instead of simply listing items, focus on how specific products can help customers overcome challenges.
For example, if electricity costs are a concern, display energy-saving LED light bulbs and promote the convenience of purchasing prepaid electricity directly through your R&A POS system.
If food budgets are tight, create an attractive display of affordable staples like dried beans, lentils, and canned fish, along with recipe ideas for nutritious and budget-friendly meals.
For those seeking entertainment options, explain how a Showmax subscription through your R&A POS system can be more cost-effective than traditional cable TV, offering a wider variety of shows and movies at a lower monthly cost.
And for those who love gaming, highlight the value of purchasing gaming vouchers or top-ups through your system, offering better deals and bonuses compared to buying directly from the gaming platform.
Don’t forget about data packages! With more people working from home and relying on the internet, offer a range of data bundles to suit different needs and budgets.
Understanding your customers’ needs and offering a mix of R&A’s digital products and essential physical goods will help you directly address their concerns and maintain steady sales even when times are tough.
Here’s a secret weapon you can give your customers: a handy printable table packed with money-saving tips. Print it out, put it by your till, or offer a few to your clients. Let’s help each other out.
| Energy Saving Hacks | Budgeting Brilliance | Alternative Choices | R&A Product Power-Ups |
| Turn off the lights when you leave a room. | Buy groceries in bulk with your neighbours. | Try meatless meals once a week. | Buy prepaid electricity at your local spaza. |
| Unplug phone chargers and appliances when not in use. | Have a “no spend” day each week. | Grow vegetables at home. | Get affordable data bundles for working from home. |
| Set aside time each day to unplug from devices. | Use your skills to earn extra income. | Organise a clothing swap with friends. | Enjoy movie nights with a Showmax subscription. |
| Wash clothes in cold water and line-dry them. | Cook at home more often. | Learn to do basic home repairs yourself. | Access convenient financial services at your spaza. |
| Take shorter showers to save water and energy. | Use a prepaid meter to track electricity usage. | Share budget-friendly recipes with others. | Use local loyalty programs for rewards and discounts. |
Final Thoughts:
We’re not just about keeping the lights on; we’re about keeping your business and your community thriving. We’re always on the lookout for new products and services that make life easier and more affordable.
Our tech is designed with you in mind – simple, efficient, and ready to help you make the most of every opportunity. If you ever hit a snag, our 24/7 customer support team is just a phone call away.
Together, we can outsmart the price hike and build a brighter future for South Africa.
Let’s hear from you! Share your stories, your struggles, and your successes in the comments below. How are you beating the price hike?
