A bold new chapter for SPAR as it debuts a gourmet store designed for modern, premium-conscious shoppers. Picture Credits: Business Tech
By Aisha Zardad
KwaZulu-Natal – SPAR has officially entered the premium grocery market with the launch of its first luxury store, SPAR Gourmet, at the Zimbali Oasis in KwaZulu-Natal. This debut marks a significant milestone for the retailer as it expands beyond traditional supermarkets and into a more curated, high-end food experience.
The project stems from SPAR’s long-established partnership model and was brought to life in collaboration with veteran independent retailer Mark Anderson, who brings more than 40 years of expertise to the venture. SPAR’s franchise system has always relied on independent owners who combine entrepreneurial insight with local community understanding — and the Zimbali launch demonstrates how powerful that model can be when paired with national support and innovation.
Designed as a premium food destination, SPAR Gourmet moves away from the typical grocery layout. Instead, shoppers are welcomed into an elevated environment showcasing artisanal breads, freshly baked pastries, ready-made gourmet meals, a premium butchery offering specialised cuts, and an elegant wine emporium. Every element is aimed at customers seeking a more refined, convenient and indulgent shopping experience.
SPAR said the store reflects its ambition to redefine convenience through quality and curation, emphasising a modern, luxury-inspired aesthetic. Its product selection and layout were created to appeal to the lifestyle of affluent shoppers and the exclusive nature of the Zimbali community.
Mpudi Maubane, SPAR’s National PR, Communications & Sponsorships Manager, described the launch as a landmark moment for the brand.
“Today marked a defining moment for SPAR. The launch of SPAR Gourmet showed just how powerful it can be when our retailers’ passion and entrepreneurial spirit come together with the support and innovation of the SPAR brand. Zimbali Oasis was the perfect place to bring this vision to life, and alongside our retailer, we’ve created a store that genuinely lifts the shopping experience for our consumer.”
Customers visiting the store on opening day were welcomed with exclusive tastings, interactive demonstrations, and curated displays, all designed to highlight SPAR Gourmet’s focus on quality and experiential shopping. According to Maubane, the concept is intended to be more than a store — it is meant to be a food destination where customers can explore unique products, sample handcrafted flavours, and engage with food in new ways.
The launch also aligns with SPAR’s broader strategic ambitions. Last year, the retailer announced plans to enter the high-end grocery segment and committed to opening its first premium-format store in 2025. With SPAR Gourmet now operational, the group has taken the first step in rolling out up to four of these luxury stores next year, positioning itself to compete with established premium players such as Checkers, Pick n Pay and Woolworths.
CEO Angelo Swartz previously indicated that while the initial rollout would begin with one store, more locations are already planned as part of the retailer’s long-term vision.
With the opening of SPAR Gourmet in Zimbali, SPAR has signalled a bold shift into the premium grocery market — setting a new benchmark for luxury food retail in South Africa and paving the way for more high-end stores to follow.
