21.1 C
Cape Town
Friday, January 17, 2025

Amazon Launches Seller Success Centre to Boost South African Small Businesses

Published on

 

Amazon South Africa has unveiled the Amazon Seller Success Centre, a new walk-in hub aimed at empowering local entrepreneurs and small businesses.

 

Located at Amazon’s head office in Cape Town, the initiative seeks to support sellers in reaching more customers and expanding their operations through Amazon’s online platform.

 

The Centre offers a variety of services, including on-the-spot seller registration, training via interactive educational screens, in-person webinars, networking event facilities, product imaging and cataloguing assistance, as well as shipping and logistics support.

 

Open to the public, the facility welcomes entrepreneurs of all sizes who are interested in leveraging Amazon’s platform for growth.

 

“We’re thrilled to introduce the Amazon Seller Success Centre to South African small businesses,” said Robert Koen, Managing Director of Amazon Sub-Saharan Africa.

 

“This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering the growth of local businesses and contributing to South Africa’s digital economy. By providing hands-on support and resources, we’re bridging the technological divide for entrepreneurs who previously lacked access to e-commerce opportunities.”

 

Robert Koen, Managing Director of Amazon Sub-Saharan Africa

 

The launch is particularly timely given the challenges faced by South Africa’s Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), which account for about 50% of the country’s workforce and contribute roughly 34% to the national GDP.

 

Despite their significance, many SMMEs struggle with digital adoption due to limited access to technology and skills. The Centre aims to address these challenges by equipping businesses with tools to enhance their digital presence.

 

The facility is staffed with experts ready to assist entrepreneurs with onboarding and seller account management. Additionally, monthly seller connect sessions will foster networking and peer-to-peer learning, creating a supportive community for Amazon’s selling partners.

 

Nikki Robertson, founder of Zulu Mien, an ethical-luxe jewellery brand, shared her experience with Amazon’s support.

 

“Managing my business alone is challenging, but Amazon’s guidance has been invaluable in digitising my operations and reaching more customers. Their commitment to empowering small enterprises like mine, which supports rural women artisans, is truly commendable.”

 

Amazon seller Nikki Robertson, Founder of Zulu Mien

 

As part of its broader effort to engage with local sellers, Amazon South Africa also announced its inaugural Seller Summit, set to take place later this year.

 

The summit will feature exclusive content, expert-led training sessions, and opportunities for sellers to network and learn about the latest tools and innovations.

 

“The Amazon Seller Success Centre is a launchpad for local businesses aiming to thrive in the digital marketplace,” said Suzelle Abe, Head of Marketplace for Amazon South Africa.

 

“By addressing the challenges of digital adoption and offering practical tools, we’re enabling businesses to scale both locally and globally while enhancing customer choices. This initiative represents a commitment to fostering a vibrant seller community and supporting South Africa’s economic prosperity.”

 

For more information on how to sell on Amazon, visit sell.amazon.com/south-africa.

Latest articles

Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire. It doesn’t guarantee a peaceful end to a devastating war

Marika Sosnowski, The University of Melbourne   After 467 days of violence, a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel has been reached and will come into...

Sustainable financial habits to help you achieve your goals in 2025

  Find and keep some sustainable financial habits to help you achieve your financial goals in 2025.   This is some of the advice given to many...

Cape Town Named Time Out’s Best City in the World for 2025!

  Cape Town has claimed the top spot on Time Out’s annual list of the Best Cities in the World, announced on January 15, 2025.   This...