SPAR has officially stepped into its luxury era with the launch of its first-ever SPAR Gourmet store at the breathtaking Zimbali Oasis, and we got an exclusive look inside this new wave of elevated grocery and dining culture
Brought to life through a powerful partnership between SPAR and seasoned independent retailer Mark Anderson, the store represents more than a milestone, it’s a bold reimagining of what premium shopping can feel like in South Africa. With more than 40 years of retail experience, Anderson’s expertise, paired with SPAR’s national support, has resulted in a space that blends sophistication, craftsmanship and lifestyle living with effortless ease.
Set within one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most exclusive leisure estates, SPAR Gourmet reads more like a curated food gallery than a typical supermarket. Guests exploring the store for the first time were welcomed by handcrafted artisanal breads fresh from the bakery, patisserie delights that feel Paris-inspired, gourmet ready-to-eat meals, a premium butchery offering bespoke cuts and an elegant wine emporium designed for leisurely browsing, tasting and discovering. Every detail feels intentional, refined yet accessible, premium yet warm, elevated while still rooted in SPAR’s commitment to community.
SPAR’s business model has always been anchored in the strength of its independent retailers; local entrepreneurs who bring personal insight, passion and community-rooted knowledge to each SPAR store. The launch of SPAR Gourmet beautifully showcased the power of this partnership-driven approach. As Mpudi Maubane, National PR, Communications & Sponsorships Manager at SPAR, shared, “Today marked a defining moment for SPAR. The launch of SPAR Gourmet showed what’s possible when our retailers’ passion meets the innovation of the SPAR brand. Together, we’ve created a store that genuinely lifts the shopping experience for our consumer.”
Opening-day celebrations doubled as an immersive food and lifestyle experience. Guests were treated to curated tastings, live demonstrations and interactive touchpoints designed to showcase the store’s commitment to quality, craft and sensory enjoyment. It felt less like a supermarket opening and more like stepping into a destination where food and lifestyle intertwine. “SPAR Gourmet is intended to be more than just a store,” Maubane added. “It’s an experiential destination where customers can discover curated products, enjoy handcrafted flavours and engage with food in new, inspiring ways.”
The debut of SPAR Gourmet signals a defining new chapter for the brand as it expands its premium offering while remaining true to its founding ethos: empowering independent retailers, uplifting communities and celebrating proudly South African innovation. As the first customers walked through its doors, they entered a fresh era of gastronomy-meets-lifestyle; one shaped by collaboration, creativity and considered luxury.
