To empower businesses aiming to reach new markets in an increasingly digital economy, Absa has launched ShopRed, a unified commerce platform that makes setting up and operating hybrid storefronts easier than ever before.
Born from a partnership with merchant platform, littlefish, and digital payments leader, Visa, Absa’s ShopRed helps entrepreneurs simplify the digital administration between their online and brick-and-mortar channels, so they can do what they do best – run and grow their businesses.
Unlike traditional e-commerce systems, where businesses must integrate an online marketplace, a separate provider for payment solutions and additional apps for inventory management, ShopRed consolidates everything into a single, easy to use platform. Merchants no longer need to juggle different providers or learn how to integrate various tools, as ShopRed provides a unified commerce platform, making it accessible even to businesses without extensive technical resources.
“ShopRed offers businesses the ability to showcase and sell products online through easy website creation and hosting, integrated payment options, access to markets and advanced analytics tools to manage in-store and online inventory,” said Chris Wood, Managing Executive for Product at Absa Business Banking. “As the Bank of the Entrepreneur, this launch highlights Absa’s continued focus on driving innovation and creating opportunities for businesses to expand their reach into new markets and access a wider customer base”.
The platform comes at a time when South Africa’s e-commerce sector is experiencing unprecedented growth. According to Absa’s data, e-commerce spiked with turnover going up 25% in the first quarter of 2024 and rising steadily throughout the year, ending with a 12% increase in the fourth quarter. Based on these trends, the data signals sustained growth in digital payments in 2025.
“Our mission has always been to empower small businesses with the digital tools they need to compete, grow, and succeed. Through this partnership, we’re putting that technology directly into the hands of business owners—helping them streamline operations, reach more customers, and unlock new opportunities,” said Brandon Roberts, CEO of littlefish. “Partnering with a bank like Absa, which has such a strong impact on South Africa’s entrepreneurial community, is an incredible opportunity.”
As part of its commitment to supporting fintech startups, Visa played a key role in the development of ShopRed by connecting littlefish with Absa. This partnership highlights Visa’s ongoing efforts to drive financial inclusion, ensuring that SMEs have access to the digital tools they need to succeed in today’s economy.
“At Visa, we see financial inclusion as a crucial driver of economic growth. Our recent Value of Acceptance research indicates that digital payment acceptance can increase small business revenue by up to 24% and enhance operational efficiencies by 20%. We are proud to collaborate with Absa and littlefish to launch platforms like ShopRed, a demonstration of our shared commitment to empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs to thrive in the digital economy,” said Lineshree Moodley, Country Head of Visa South Africa.
ShopRed’s key features include:
- Hassle-free store setup: The platform enables businesses to create professional, customisable online stores in just a few steps.
- User-centric interface: A simple, intuitive dashboard available both online and on Android compatible phones, provides real-time insights into sales, orders, and customer engagement.
- End-to-end e-commerce tools: From inventory tracking to secure payment processing, ShopRed offers an all-in-one solution.
- Optimised for growth: The platform is designed to support businesses in scaling their operations and reaching new markets.
ShopRed leverages Absa’s leadership in the acquiring market and aims to reduce operational complexities, allowing business owners to focus on growth and customer engagement. By simplifying e-commerce, Absa is enabling entrepreneurs to access new markets and exciting growth opportunities.
For more information about ShopRed, visit https://www.absa.co.za/offers/shopred/.
