Amazon South Africa hosts second Seller Summit to share tools for growth with small businesses

Amazon South Africa recently hosted its second annual Seller Summit, bringing together more than 300 entrepreneurs, industry leaders and Amazon’s most accomplished sellers.

The event showcased the latest tools and innovations designed to help local businesses scale on Amazon.co.za, while celebrating outstanding achievements through the inaugural Amazon South Africa Seller Awards.

“This year’s summit showcased the energy and innovation of South Africa’s entrepreneurial community,” says Robert Koen (pictured), Amazon managing director for Sub-Saharan Africa. “We’re focused on the ongoing success of our independent sellers, as they are fundamental to our ability to offer a broad selection, great prices and a convenient shopping experience for our customers. This event reinforced our commitment to providing the tools, knowledge and support they need to succeed on a global stage.”

The summit featured a comprehensive agenda designed to equip sellers with global best practice and practical local knowledge. The event provided sellers with immersive masterclasses to test and explore Amazon’s programmes and features that simplify the seller journey from product listing, advertising, harnessing AI and brand building, to shipping and fulfilment.

Networking sessions throughout the day fostered meaningful connections between sellers and Amazon subject matter experts who provided guidance on using Amazon’s latest capabilities to reach more customers, grow and succeed.

A highlight was the keynote address by Mushambi Mutuma, a renowned author and tech leader with over 18 years of experience building brands across Africa and the United States. An expert in innovation and digital transformation, he spoke about “The Adaptability Code” from his eponymous book, and provided guidance on how companies can thrive in an evolving digital world, sharing insights on technology, entrepreneurship and innovation.

Inaugural Amazon South Africa Seller Awards

The summit culminated in the presentation of the inaugural Amazon South Africa Seller Awards, recognising sellers who have demonstrated exceptional growth, innovation and customer commitment.

“South Africa is powered by sellers who have built, scaled and thrived through innovation, resilience and relentless ambition,” says Suzelle Abe, head of Marketplace at Amazon South Africa. “These awards celebrate the milestones, breakthroughs and success stories that have defined the selling journey for entrepreneurs across every category and size.”

2026 Award Winners

Amazon Shop Mzansi Award

Recognising outstanding performance by a South African small to medium business brand that has captured the hearts of customers through exceptional product quality, authentic storytelling and a deep commitment to local craftsmanship, sourcing and identity.

Winner: SKIN functional

SKIN functional embodies what it means to be a proudly South African brand. Through product excellence and authentic storytelling, it has captured the hearts of customers who value local craftsmanship and innovation. SKIN functional proves that local brands can compete at the highest level while staying true to their roots.

Amazon Rising Star Award

Celebrating a new or emerging seller who has achieved remarkable growth within their first 12 months on Amazon South Africa. This award recognises exceptional momentum through rapid sales growth, standout customer reviews, creative brand building and entrepreneurial drive.

Winner: A & F Home

A & F Home is the definition of hitting the ground running. In less than a year on Amazon South Africa, it has demonstrated the kind of entrepreneurial hustle and creative brand building that gets noticed. The company’s rapid growth isn’t just about numbers – it’s about building something meaningful from day one.

Amazon Golden Smile Award

Honouring the top seller who has achieved exceptional overall performance and outstanding customer satisfaction in the past 12 months.

Winner: Romtech Online

Romtech Online has proven that momentum and customer satisfaction go hand in hand. Since launching on Amazon South Africa, it has built a reputation for excellence that’s reflected in every review and every sale. Its commitment to delivering quality products and outstanding service has turned first-time buyers into loyal customers – and that’s the kind of growth that lasts.

“The significant success we’ve experienced on Amazon is a direct result of their commitment to providing excellent value, supported by a team that enables us to sell without friction,” says Jacque Keth, owner of Romtech Online. “Amazon has demonstrated that they genuinely care about their marketplace sellers and are eager to build a strong, mutually beneficial and lasting relationship with us.”

Abe concludes, “We’ve seen tremendous growth in our seller community over the past year. This summit and the Amazon Awards represent our ongoing commitment to invest in South African entrepreneurs – providing not just a marketplace but a devoted community and a comprehensive resource of tools, knowledge and support.

“We’re excited to continue this journey alongside local entrepreneurs and look forward to seeing the growth and innovation that will come from the connections made at the event.”

Click here for more information about selling on Amazon South Africa.