The Clicks Story: From a Single Store to a South African Retail Giant

Source: Clicks Group

In the heart of Cape Town, on St. George's Street, a visionary retailer named Jack Goldin embarked on a journey that would transform South Africa’s retail landscape. It was August 6, 1968, and Goldin, fresh off his success with Pick n Pay, opened the first Clicks store. This modest beginning was the start of something much bigger than anyone could have imagined.

The Visionary Beginnings

Jack Goldin had a dream. Inspired by the drugstore concept popular in the United States, he envisioned Clicks as a place where South Africans could access health, beauty, and wellness products under one roof.

However, due to restrictive pharmacy legislation at the time, Clicks couldn't immediately become a fully-fledged drugstore. Instead, it filled an essential market niche, offering a unique mix of products at competitive prices. The store's commitment to value was encapsulated in its slogan,

"You Pay Less at Clicks."

Early Expansion

The success of the first store was a testament to Goldin's vision. By 1971, Clicks had expanded beyond the Western Cape, opening a store on West Street in Durban. The brand's appeal continued to grow, and in 1979, Clicks Stores Limited was listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) with a market capitalization of R10 million.

This marked a significant milestone, heralding a new era of growth and expansion. Through the 1980s, Clicks continued to open new stores across South Africa. Goldin’s relentless drive saw the establishment of a new head office in Woodstock, Cape Town, in 1983. The expansion even included the acquisition of the retail chain Discom, further solidifying Clicks’ presence in the market.

Overcoming Legislative Hurdles

Goldin's dream of creating a drugstore finally took a step closer to reality in 2003 when South African pharmacy legislation changed. The following year, Clicks opened its first pharmacy in Sea Point, Cape Town. This was a pivotal moment, transforming Clicks into a comprehensive health and beauty retailer.

Innovating and Growing

The opening of its first pharmacy marked the beginning of a new chapter for Clicks. The company rapidly expanded its footprint, and today it operates over 900 stores across Southern Africa, including in Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, and Eswatini. Clicks also embraced the digital revolution, launching an online shopping platform that offers customers the convenience of home delivery or click-and-collect services.

Clicks has continually innovated its product offerings. The introduction of private label brands like Safeway, Kambrook, and Smartlife has significantly contributed to its sales. In 1995, Clicks launched the Clicks ClubCard Loyalty Programme, the first of its kind in Africa, which now boasts 11 million active members.

Strategic Acquisitions

Clicks has strategically grown through acquisitions, enhancing its market position. In 2001, it signed a franchise agreement with The Body Shop, bringing the globally popular brand to South Africa. Today, The Body Shop products are available in over 250 Clicks stores and 61 stand-alone stores.

In 2003, Clicks acquired United Pharmaceutical Distributors (UPD), strengthening its pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution capabilities. UPD is now South Africa’s leading full-range pharmaceutical wholesaler with a national presence.

Clicks also introduced Sorbet products into its stores and later acquired a 25% stake in Sorbet Brands. By 2023, Clicks had acquired all shares in Sorbet Holdings, further cementing its leadership in the beauty and wellness market.

Commitment to Community and Innovation

Clicks’ commitment to corporate social responsibility is evident through initiatives like the Clicks Helping Hand Trust, launched in 2011, which provides free basic healthcare testing and wellness services to disadvantaged South Africans. Over 400,000 lives have been positively impacted by this initiative.

In 2016, Clicks launched its online shopping platform, offering over 25,000 products, and introduced a mobile app that includes a virtual ClubCard. This move further enhanced customer convenience and solidified Clicks’ position as a leader in retail innovation.

Recent Milestones

In 2023, Clicks celebrated its 55th anniversary, a testament to its enduring success and relevance. The same year, the company expanded its service delivery by opening its first omnichannel warehouse. By 2024, Clicks had opened its 900th store at Barlow Park Lifestyle Centre in Johannesburg, continuing its legacy of growth and innovation.

Conclusion

From its humble beginnings in Cape Town, Clicks has grown into a retail giant, transforming the health and beauty landscape in Southern Africa. Jack Goldin’s vision and entrepreneurial spirit have left an indelible mark on the industry.

As Clicks continues to innovate and expand, it remains a cornerstone of South Africa’s retail sector, committed to offering value, convenience, and excellence to its customers.