LEADING retail behemoth OK Zimbabwe yesterday launched the 35th edition of the grand challenge, with a purse valued at over US$1 million and supported by over 40 different local brands.
Launched at OKmart Harare, the promotion has held its own against a tough year for formal retail businesses.
For the second time since inception, OKmart has been added to the challenge and will be participating in the promotion together with the national OK Stores chain, bringing the total number of participating outlets to 60 from the traditional 52.
“Our commitment to making happiness tangible to our shoppers is brought into sharp focus through iconic promotions such as the OK Grand Challenge,” OK Zimbabwe supply chain director, Knox Mupaya, said.
“The fact that together with our suppliers, we are able to mobilise prizes worth US$1 million in a tough year for retail, shows that we do not pay lip service to delivering value to our shoppers, we put our money behind our promises.”
The OK Grand Challenge will this year have 50 vehicles on offer, plus the grand prize being a Ford Ranger XLT double cab. To enter, shoppers need to spend US$10 or more at any OK Store or US$100 or more at any OKmart.
The jackpot promotion was launched under the theme, OK Grand Challenge, Where the Nation Shops and Saves.
OK Zimbabwe marketing director, Stanley Meck, spoke to the theme and its significance to the retailer.
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“As OK, our tagline for the OK Grand Challenge, Where the Nation Shops and Saves is a nod to our historical root strength, which is delivering full value to Zimbabweans wherever they are, through unbeatable prices,” Meck said.
“We believe that our power as Zimbabwe’s largest retailer is reflected in our ability to ensure that our shoppers do not have to pay more than they need to for their daily essentials and needs, and we are committed to delivering these savings, through the OK Grand Challenge period and beyond as we position ourselves as the destination for the smart shopper.”
With a network of over 73 stores, including 52 OK supermarkets, nine Bon Marche’s and eight OKmarts and a stand-alone liquor store, OK Zimbabwe is the country’s largest and most diversified retailer with over 82 years trading experience.
This year’s challenge becomes the 35th in the long running Zimbabwe franchise, in what has easily become one of the largest promotions, not only in Zimbabwe, but also within the region.
The retailer will donate a car to Emthunzini Wethemba Children’s Home in Bulawayo.
“This is, again, testament to the fact that we believe in profit with purpose and that everything we do should be reinvested back into our country as prizes to shoppers, as well as gifts to those who may be less privileged within our society,” Meck said.
He, however, did not disclose the total investment for the promotion. But last year, the company spent close to US$2,5 million.
Group revenue at the listed retail giant grew 57% to ZWL$1,6 trillion in inflation-adjusted terms for the nine months ended December 31, 2023, despite volumes suffering a severe knock.
