Weight Management and Wellbeing in South Africa

PROSPECTS

Category benefits from changing attitudes towards weight and appearance

Excess weight has for a long time been associated with beauty, wealth and health in some local cultures. While female curves have been seen as a sign of health and beauty, slim people have traditionally been perceived in some cultures as being sick or suffering from highly stigmatised diseases such as HIV/Aids.

Government taking a strong stance on obesity

The government has been investing in health campaigns across the country to inform people about the risks associated with obesity, with South Africa having been named the fattest nation on the African continent. The public health authorities are investing in new infrastructure such as outside gyms and health campaigns so as to educate the general public about the importance of weight management.

Highly publicised court cases surrounding weight loss products play a role in informing consumers

The end of the review period saw the highly publicised court cases involving the HPCSA against Tim Noakes (known for his revolutionary book on the Banting Diet) and the Advertising Standards Authority taking action against leading players regarding unsubstantiated weight loss claims, with these both serving to boost awareness among consumers. The Banting Diet has gained further momentum in South Africa.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Herbalife maintains its leading position

Herbalife maintained its leading position in weight management and wellbeing at the end of the review period, benefiting from its extensive network of direct sales representatives. The company also profits from running the Herbalife Weight Loss Challenge, whereby coaches are able to advise customers face to face with regard to the products they need to use and the right type of exercise needed to help them lose weight.

Herbex seeks to build stronger relationships with consumers

Herbex (Pty) Ltd is ranked second in weight management and wellbeing. The company has seen a further increase in its value share in 2018 with it becoming increasingly focused on building a stronger relationship with its customers.

Clicks benefits from competitive pricing

The most dynamic player in 2018 has been Clicks Group Ltd with its Clicks Nutritional Supplement range of supplement nutrition drinks. The retailer has benefited from its more affordable pricing as well the ability to push its own products through prominent shelf positioning.

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