South Africa's small business revolution: over 200 000 entrepreneurs boost growth by R500m

IN A REMARKABLE testament to resilience and innovation, South Africa's small business sector is undergoing a transformative boom, as highlighted in Yoco's latest 2025 Exchange report.

- ASHLEY LECHMAN

With over 200 000 entrepreneurs harnessing digital tools, these businesses have collectively processed an astounding 173 million transactions, equating to a remarkable growth exceeding R500 million in just one year.

This surge underlines the crucial role of small businesses in the economy.

Yoco's CEO, Katlego Maphai said, "Small businesses are the heartbeat of our economy. What we're seeing in our data isn't just resilience, it's a transformation of how entrepreneurs operate, compete, and win."

Retail leads the way

The report revealed that retail merchants, who have adapted to the changing landscape by leveraging Yoco's digital solutions, reported an impressive R74 million in revenue growth.

Gauteng is depicted as a leading region in this digital shift, boasting a 22% increase in merchants and 20% larger average basket sizes compared to the Western Cape.

Notably, online sales via Yoco Gateway in Gauteng outperform those in the Western Cape by 35%, and surpass Mpumalanga by an astounding 82%.