South Africa's largest classifieds site Gumtree.co.za and largest retailer Shoprite are encouraging consumers to trade safely in store.

"Both of our brands are passionate about savings and safe transacting, which is why Shoprite stores are a natural meeting ground for Gumtree traders," says Claire Cobbledick, Director-GM of Gumtree South Africa. "The ability to safely and conveniently send money via the MoneyMarket counters in Shoprite stores adds an extra layer of security of cash buyers and sellers who would prefer not to travel home with large sums of money."

Cobbledick says that over 6 million consumers visit Gumtree.co.za every month and while buyers and sellers usually arrange where to meet on their own, there has been an increase in requests for convenient public meeting spots.

"We approached Shoprite because there are many safe and convenient store locations across the country. They were extremely supportive of hosting Gumtree traders in-store to conclude their deals," says Cobbledick.

Anyone that has an item they would like to sell can post an ad for free on Gumtree.co.za, and arrange to meet the seller at their closest Shoprite to complete the transaction. "While meeting in public adds a layer of safety, always follow our safety advice. Do not divulge too much information over the phone, communicate via the Gumtree app or email channels (rather than SMS or Whatsapp) and be cautious when carrying cash. If something doesn't feel right, don't proceed with the transaction."

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Gumtree is the largest classifieds site in South Africa, with over 6 million unique monthly visits to the website every month.