Checkers has begun rolling out an updated version of its on-demand delivery app, Sixty60, for Android users. The updated app allows customers to shop from an expanded range of more than 10,000 products available from Checkers Hyper. Initially launched in beta for select users in Cape Town in May 2024, the updated app is now reaching a wider audience across South Africa.
Expanded Product Range
The Sixty60 app’s revamped version significantly expands its product offering beyond just groceries. It now allows users to shop for various items, including camping gear, baby products, kitchen electronics, small appliances, and even toys. This diverse product range makes the app more versatile and attractive to a broader customer base, offering convenience for those looking for general merchandise in addition to food and essentials.
A MyBroadband reader in Johannesburg confirmed that the updated Sixty60 app for Android was now available, featuring Checkers Hyper products. However, the update has not yet been made available for iOS users.
User Interface and Design Improvements
The updated app includes several user interface changes aimed at improving user experience. These updates include:
- A Checkers Hyper delivery timeslot indicator, allowing users to see available delivery windows.
- A redesign of the user profile menu, making it more user-friendly and easier to navigate.
- Colour scheme updates for a fresh look and improved readability.
One notable addition is a new menu option on the homepage titled “Sixty60 Goes Hyper”. This section provides easy access to the full range of Checkers Hyper products available through the app, making it simpler for users to browse and order larger items like air fryers, garden supplies, and coffee machines.
Improved Delivery and Logistics
As part of the app revamp, Checkers has introduced new delivery vans to its fleet to handle the larger items available through Checkers Hyper. This logistical upgrade ensures customers receive their orders efficiently, without the delays that can sometimes occur with bulkier products.
Shoprite’s strategy and innovation chief, Neil Schreuder, expressed confidence that the updated Sixty60 app would further disrupt South Africa’s online retail space. He highlighted the introduction of a 60-minute delivery time slot feature, allowing customers to choose when their Checkers Hyper delivery should arrive. This flexibility, combined with real-time driver tracking, provides a level of convenience that sets Sixty60 apart from other delivery platforms in the country.
Competitive Edge and Profitability
Sixty60’s ongoing development was first hinted at by Shoprite CEO Pieter Engelbrecht during an earnings call covering the company’s interim results for the half-year ending in December 2023. Engelbrecht explained that Sixty60’s logistics model differentiates it from global giants like Amazon and Takealot, citing its micro-fulfilment strategy. Instead of relying on a single, costly dark distribution centre, Sixty60 uses its extensive network of stores as fulfilment centres, a strategy that has made the app highly profitable.
Despite scepticism from some industry watchers, Engelbrecht affirmed the profitability of Sixty60, crediting its unique fulfilment model for keeping operational costs lower compared to its competitors.
Continued Growth
Launched during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Checkers Sixty60 app has seen continued growth even after the lockdowns ended. Its latest results show a 58.1% increase in sales during the financial year, which, while lower than the 81.5% growth the year before, still reflects its success. The on-demand service has also expanded its footprint to 539 stores nationwide, an increase of 34 stores in just eight months. The strong growth of Sixty60 has played a crucial role in boosting the overall sales of the Shoprite Group, contributing to a 12% rise in total sales to R240.7 billion.
What’s Next for Sixty60?
While the iOS update for the revamped Sixty60 app is yet to be released, Android users can now enjoy a more robust shopping experience with Checkers Hyper. As Shoprite continues to expand its on-demand delivery service and enhance its technology, the Sixty60 app is poised to remain a leading player in South Africa’s evolving online retail space.
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