Retrospective briefing: These five items revisit existing reporting and research from different dates. They should not be read as five announcements made this week.
1. Search and social shaped digital advertising
The IAB SA/PwC report for 2023 described paid search as a dominant channel and social media as an important contributor. Its discussion of communities helps frame the distinction between platform distribution and direct audience relationships.
2. Visa’s fourth accelerator cohort connected emerging businesses
Disrupt Africa reported on 7 August 2025 that 22 startups had joined the fourth Visa Africa Fintech Accelerator cohort, including South Africa’s Zazu. Selection offered a programme opportunity, not a guarantee of investment or success.
3. Grocery delivery raised service expectations
World Wide Worx’s September 2025 announcement highlighted strong online grocery growth, including reported 47% growth for Checkers Sixty60 in the first half of 2025. The figure concerns that period and does not establish current market share.
4. Payment preferences reflected context
The SARB’s 2024/25 report summarised research showing cash remained widely used for small payments. Price, access and understanding can shape customer choices alongside speed.
5. Smartphone affordability limited participation
GSMA’s November 2025 study identified affordability as a major barrier to adoption. Its regional median entry-level device price of approximately US$39 in 2024 should not be confused with what every household can comfortably afford.
The business lens
Analysis: Distribution is valuable only when people can participate. A business needs to consider how customers discover an offer, access the service, pay and receive dependable support—not just how many impressions a campaign generates.