Shoprite’s expansion drive is set to continue after the Competition Commission recommended approval of its proposed acquisition of liquor retailer PicardiRebel, subject to conditions.
According to BusinessTech, PicardiRebel operates 34 outlets in South Africa, including one wholesaler. The business has been operating for about 45 years and has an established presence in the local liquor market.
Commission backs the deal
The Competition Commission recommended that the Competition Tribunal approve the transaction with conditions.
BusinessTech reported that Shoprite will be required to commit capital expenditure towards the target business, including refurbishing PicardiRebel liquor stores within a specified period after the deal is implemented.
The Commission said it did not believe the proposed transaction would substantially lessen or prevent competition in a relevant market.
Under South Africa’s merger-control system, the Competition Commission assesses proposed transactions before making recommendations or decisions depending on the size and classification of the merger.
Shoprite expands liquor footprint
Shoprite already has a sizeable liquor retail business through its LiquorShop brands.
BusinessTech reported that PicardiRebel would be added to a group that operates hundreds of liquor outlets across the country.
The retailer has also continued expanding its liquor operations in recent years. Shoprite’s 2025 financial results showed strong sales growth in both Shoprite LiquorShop and Checkers LiquorShop, alongside further store openings.
The latest PicardiRebel deal therefore adds another established liquor business to Shoprite’s growing retail portfolio.
More acquisitions in the pipeline
The PicardiRebel transaction comes as Shoprite pursues growth beyond its core supermarket operations.
BusinessTech reported that the group has also agreed to acquire coffee chain Vida e Caffè, although that transaction still requires regulatory approval.
Shoprite has also taken a majority stake in technology and payments company R&A Cellular, according to the report.
The group plans to use that business to strengthen its financial services reach, particularly among informal and semi-formal retailers.
Shoprite’s recent acquisitions, together with planned new store openings, point to continued investment across several parts of South Africa’s retail market.