Informal retail structures in South Africa : an exploratory study : research article
Year: 2003
Type: article
Abstract: The current climate of widespread unemployment and high levels of poverty has resulted in a burgeoning microenterprise economy in South Africa. The proliferation of small enterprises, particularly in the retail sector, is also thriving on the demand profile of households with limited disposable income. Their needs for commodities and services such as clothing, food, housing, transport and personal services can appropriately be supplied by the informal sector in terms of affordability, type and quality. The aim of this article is to contribute towards a better insight into informal retail trade activities, focusing on spaza trade in South Africa. It is estimated that spaza retailers captured approximately 2.7% of South Africa's retail trade, amounting to more than R7 billion, in 2000. Approximately 70% of microbusinesses are concentrated in the trade sector. Of particular importance in this regard are spaza shops, defined as small retail businesses operating from a residential stand or home and engaged in the trading of consumer goods.
Source: Southern African Business Review
Author: A A Ligthelm
Language: English
Subfield: Geography, Planning and Development
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $388
OpenAlex ID: W1481144471