Q & A SOUTH AFRICAN PORK PRODUCERS’ ORGANISATION( SAPPO)
SAPPO signals shift in strategy
South Africa’ s pork sector eyes a 2026 growth reset as SAPPO’ s Dr Marlene Louw outlines new market openings, financing shifts, and productivity gains reshaping the industry’ s path after a tough economic cycle.
DR MARLENE LOUW | CEO
What have your recent field discussions with producers, financiers and retailers revealed that’ s influencing your growth priorities? Over the past few months, I’ ve had a front-row view of the energy and momentum building across the pork value chain – from vibrant producer days to discussions with financiers and the expansion of pork-focused retail outlets. These engagements reflect the sector’ s dynamism and lay a strong foundation for accelerated growth in 2026.
Our focus for the new year is on deepening collaboration across the value chain, anchored in strong partnerships and shared objectives. This shift is already taking shape: in 2025, SAPPO hosted its first Bankers Briefing on 12 November, marking a meaningful step toward closer alignment with financial institutions. We remain committed to maintaining these relationships to ensure producers have consistent access to capital, in this way supporting innovation while also helping the industry navigate tougher operating conditions.
Which domestic and export market segments present the most realistic and scalable growth opportunities for South African pork over the next five years? Domestically, three segments present the strongest opportunities:
• Value-for-money retail cuts and convenience formats: With urban households under financial pressure, the demand for affordable proteins and easy-to-prepare options continues to rise. Pork is particularly competitive in this space.
• Informal and foodservice markets: Growth in convenience-led consumption is reshaping both formal and informal channels. Stronger partnerships and better alignment across the value chain will be essential to ensure pork captures this momentum.
• Health and wellness positioning: SAPPO is advancing a science-based narrative around pork’ s nutritional profile and versatility. Our collaboration with institutions such as the Noakes Foundation supports this work, highlighting pork’ s role as a lean, high-quality protein suitable – even advantageous – for sports and insurance-linked nutrition. Broadening awareness of these benefits remains key to driving uptake among higher-LSM consumers.
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