Woolworths Expands Tuck Shop Initiative in South Africa
Woolworths, the leading premium grocery retailer in South Africa, is set to broaden its tuck shop network at schools across the nation following a positive response to existing partnerships. The initiative not only aims to enhance brand visibility but also meets the growing demand for improved food options in educational settings.
Two schools, Springfield Convent and Curro Century City in Cape Town, have already embraced this partnership with Woolworths Foods. The first Woolworths tuck shop opened at Springfield Convent in Wynberg in 2023, having been innovatively converted from a shipping container.
Just recently, in January 2026, Curro Century City emerged as the second school nationwide to introduce a Woolworths Foods tuck shop. This facility stands out as a cashless operation, allowing students to make payments using bank cards or the convenient Karri App, which empowers parents to monitor their children’s spending and arrange meals ahead of time.
Although specific plans for further expansion of the Woolworths Tuck Shops haven’t been disclosed post-Curro’s launch, CEO Roy Bagattini has asserted that they will remain integral to the company’s broader growth strategy. In conversations with the Sunday Times, Bagattini emphasized that Woolworths Ventures seeks to enhance its offerings at tuck shops alongside food trucks and events, responding to schools’ calls for healthier food choices for students.
The tuck shop rollout has proven to be highly successful, providing a pathway for young consumers to engage with the brand at an early age. Woolworths Ventures encompasses a variety of brands, including Absolute Pets, WEdits, WCafe, and Woolworths Now Now, and has recorded impressive double-digit sales growth in the first half of 2025, positioning it as a crucial growth segment for the business.
Leadership Transition at Woolworths
A notable leadership transition is on the horizon for Woolworths as Sam Ngumeni steps into the role of Group CEO, replacing Roy Bagattini, who will conclude his tenure on May 31, 2026. Ngumeni, who has nearly three decades of experience within the company, has held various senior roles, including Executive Director of Woolworths Holdings Limited since 2014, and will officially commence as CEO on June 1, 2026.
His extensive background includes roles as Group Chief Operating Officer, Group Director of HR & Transformation, and CEO of Woolworths Financial Services. He also supports key committees within the organization, such as the Risk, Information and Technology Committee and the Social and Ethics Committee.
Ngumeni is in line for a R100 million bonus tied to a special once-off performance share award. His objective includes boosting the company’s share price from the current range of around R50 to R100 by 2031, which would make him eligible for the significant share reward if successful.
