The “new-look” Powersales has returned to the Zimbabwean market with a significant expansion strategy, aiming to open 15 shops by the end of this year and a further 10 in 2027.
Managing director Benjamin Blatch told Southern Eye Business that the brand is returning with a “fresh approach and a renewed commitment to Zimbabwean consumers.”
While the company retains its original name and logo, Blatch emphasised that it is now an independently operated business using an updated retail model tailored to the modern customer.
“Our focus remains simple: to provide Zimbabwean families with quality, brand-new clothing and footwear at exceptional value,” Blatch said. “We believe every customer deserves access to affordable products without compromising on quality.”
The retailer has already established a presence within Metro Hypermarkets in Tynwald (Harare), Seke Road (Harare), Kwekwe, Bulawayo, and Marondera, as well as inside Gain Hyper in Karoi.
Blatch said the initial customer response has been “incredibly encouraging,” reinforcing the company’s vision to become the country’s leading discount clothing retailer.
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The expansion is expected to create employment opportunities and stimulate the broader economy.
While Powersales currently relies on international supply partners, Blatch revealed that increasing local manufacturing was a “key strategic priority.”
“We are already in discussions with many of Zimbabwe’s leading clothing and textile manufacturers,” Blatch said, adding that the goal is to significantly expand locally produced ranges by the end of the year.
“We believe Zimbabwe has the talent and manufacturing capability to produce excellent products.”
Addressing the competition with the second-hand clothing market, Blatch argued that there is a significant gap for affordable, new garments.
He said Powersales offers prices “surprisingly close to second-hand alternatives,” with the added benefit of “clean, durable and fashionable products.”
However, the return of the retail giant has caused some concern among small-scale traders.
Siphokuhle Sibanda, spokesperson for the Unity Village flea market traders in Bulawayo, warned that the re-entry of Powersales would create fierce competition in an “already depressed market.”
“It’s really going to be a wait-and-see game,” Sibanda said.
Despite these market pressures, Blatch remained optimistic, citing the company’s slogan: “Where Your Money Buys You More.”
“We would like to thank our customers for the incredible support they have shown since our return,” he said. “We look forward to welcoming many more Zimbabweans into the Powersales family.”