Sefalana Group, established in 1974, has grown from a small operation with six wholesale stores and a maize mill into a formidable multinational conglomerate. With a significant presence in Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, and even Australia, Sefalana has become synonymous with retail excellence and economic impact in Southern Africa.
Diverse Business Operations
Retail and FMCG: Sefalana is Botswana's largest Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) retailer, operating 134 stores locally and expanding its footprint in Namibia and Lesotho. The group's retail division includes supermarkets, hypermarkets, cash-and-carry stores, and liquor outlets, catering to a wide range of consumer needs.
Manufacturing: The group's manufacturing division, Foods Botswana, produces a variety of products, including beverages and milled goods, ensuring high-quality local production that supports the region's economy.
Property and Real Estate: Sefalana also has a strong presence in the property sector, managing a portfolio of commercial and industrial properties. This diversification helps stabilize the group's revenue streams and provides a solid foundation for sustained growth.
Financial Performance
In 2023, Sefalana achieved a record-breaking turnover of P9.1 billion and a Profit Before Tax (PBT) of P403 million, reflecting a commendable 21% increase from the previous year. The group also declared its highest-ever dividend payment of P180 million to shareholders, showcasing its financial strength and commitment to delivering shareholder value (TheVoiceBW) (Ceo Africa Magazine) (Sefalana Website) (The Business Weekly & Review).
Expansion and Future Plans
As part of its growth strategy, Sefalana plans to open 10 new stores in Botswana and six new Metro stores in Namibia in 2024. This expansion will bring the total number of outlets in Botswana to 134 and in Namibia to 32, demonstrating the group's aggressive approach to growth and market penetration (TheVoiceBW).
Commitment to Community and Employee Development
Sefalana's success is deeply rooted in its commitment to community development and employee growth. The group employs over 6,900 people, with 99% being local citizens. It invests heavily in training and development, ensuring that its workforce is equipped with the skills needed to drive the company's success. Sefalana's corporate social responsibility initiatives include supporting local employment and contributing to the nation's economic development (TheVoiceBW) (Ceo Africa Magazine).
Strategic Vision
Looking ahead, Sefalana aims to achieve a group turnover of P10 billion by 2025. The group's strategic vision aligns with the Botswana government's development priorities, focusing on sustainable growth, improving customer satisfaction, and identifying opportunities that contribute to national development. Job creation remains at the core of Sefalana's growth plans, reinforcing its role as a responsible corporate citizen (Ceo Africa Magazine) (The Business Weekly & Review).
Conclusion
As Sefalana Group celebrates its 50th anniversary, it stands as a testament to resilience, innovation, and strategic growth. From its humble beginnings to becoming a retail powerhouse, Sefalana's journey mirrors the economic progress of Botswana. With ambitious expansion plans and a steadfast commitment to community development, Sefalana is poised to continue shaping the retail landscape in Southern Africa for years to come.
For more detailed information, you can visit their official website here.
