Agrimark Strengthens Urban Presence with New Mbombela Store as Brand Expansion and Diversification Accelerate

The 1,145m² store in Matumi Retail Centre is Agrimark’s second urban-format store, proof that it is not only expanding, but evolving its brand.

“The shopping centre’s easy access, high visibility and integration into residents’ daily routines position it well to serve a diverse group of customers,” says Arno Abeln, managing director of Agrimark, part of JSE-listed KAL Group.

This is the second urban store that has been launched since Agrimark Sitari opened its doors at the Sitari Village Centre near Somerset West in the Western Cape in 2021.

“In support of our F30 growth strategy, the expansion in Mbombela represents both a strategic step in footprint growth and a milestone in diversification,” explains Abeln. “The urban format of Agrimark Matumi strengthens the brand’s retail presence in Mpumalanga with a speciality and consumer-focused offering.”

Strong retail appeal and catchment potential

Matumi Retail Centre, which opened in July 2025, connects the town centre with surrounding suburbs. “It benefits from ongoing residential and commercial developments in a predominantly mid-to high-LSM market,” explains Abeln. “Its proximity to schools and recreational facilities supports consistent foot traffic and enhances its catchment potential.”

With a well-balanced tenant mix and a convenient location, the centre has quickly established itself as a key retail destination in the area. “These factors make the Matumi expansion an exciting step in Agrimark’s growth journey and position the store to meet the needs of a dynamic and growing community,” he adds.

Lifestyle-driven growth

According to Abeln, the store is not expressly agri-focused. “The surrounding Matumi Valley reflects strong lifestyle-driven growth, characterised by pet owners, hobby farmers, game lodges and young families,” he says. This aligns perfectly with Agrimark’s positioning as a lifestyle retailer.

“It’s a brand that supports a way of living. The market is increasingly hands-on, with growing interest in gardening, pet care and DIY activities,” he comments. “Matumi’s unique strength lies in its ability to bridge the urban–rural divide, an environment where Agrimark naturally thrives.”

Comprehensive range of products

The store is 1,145m² in size, consisting of 848m² of traditional retail trading space and a nursery and building material shed (297m²).

“A comprehensive range of product categories is on offer to serve the area’s diverse and lifestyle-driven customer base,” says Abeln.

Core departments include pool and gardening, pet supplies, DIY and hardware, as well as outdoor supplies.

“Our customers value practical, quality solutions for their homes, gardens and outdoor spaces,” he maintains. “The store’s offering bridges lifestyle, agricultural and utility needs, appealing to a broad spectrum of shoppers from emerging residential estates and peri-urban households to small-scale farmers and outdoor enthusiasts.”

Strategic diversification and expansion

Agrimark’s continued growth is driven by its strategic diversification and focus on meeting the needs of its customers.

“We’re investing in regular store upgrades, such as the recent revamp at Agrimark Philippi in Cape Town, to enhance the customer experience, expand product offerings, and ensure the business remains future fit,” says Abeln.

He adds that the new Matumi store reflects this same commitment to progress.

“By catering to our unique blend of consumers, the store positions itself as the go-to speciality retailer that can truly serve it all within this dynamic community,” Abeln concludes.