Dis-Chem Life sets a new course in South Africa's life insurance landscape

DIS-CHEM Life CEO, Greg Smith, has said that the new entrant was carving out a bold new path grounded in ready accessibility, smart technology, and deep integration within South Africa's largest pharmacy and healthcare retail network.

- TAWANDA KAROMBO

The pharmaceutical company recently acquired about 50% of One-Spark, an insurtech startup, for R155.9 million. The merged Dis-Chem Life entity launched in February this year, gearing to capitalise on Dis-Chem’s expansive footprint across South Africa.

Smith told Business Report in an interview this month that business has been steady over the first few months of operation as Dis-Chem Life. He also disclosed that the company is looking to expand from within the Dis-Chem ecosystem.

“Our growth starts from within... the biggest growth is within our own network. Now with over 350 Dis-Chem stores across the country—and many more planned—our physical footprint is one of our most valuable assets,” Smith said.

From wellness clinics to pharmacies and retail aisles, Dis-Chem pharmaceutical stores provide brand visibility for Dis-Chem Life in addition to the usual healthcare services. This means that Dis-Chem Life's work and processes to secure new clients is cut out.

“We don't need to go out and find new customers—we already have a base of over 15 million people who know and trust the Dis-Chem brand,”- explained Smith.