“Not Okay”: OK Zimbabwe Voices Concerns Over Volatile Operating Environment 

January 10, 2025 – OK Zimbabwe Limited, one of the country’s leading retail chains, has publicly addressed the challenges it faces due to a volatile operating environment, which has resulted in intermittent product supply issues.

This statement comes in response to images circulating on social media that depicted empty shelves in one of their supermarkets in Chiredzi.

Acknowledging the Challenges

The Zimbabwe Stock Exchange-listed company recognized the difficulties impacting its operations, emphasizing that these challenges are not isolated but affect the entire formal retail sector in Zimbabwe.

In a recent statement, OK Zimbabwe reassured stakeholders that its stores remain open for business and continue to serve customers despite the ongoing supply disruptions.

“We assure all stakeholders, including customers, shareholders, employees, and partners, that our stores are open for trading,” the company stated.

“Although we faced intermittent product supply challenges during the festive period, we remain committed to serving our loyal customers and contributing to Zimbabwe’s economic growth.”

Collaborative Efforts for Stability

OK Zimbabwe expressed gratitude to its supplier partners and other stakeholders for their support during these turbulent times.

The company is actively engaging with suppliers, industry associations, and regulators to restore normal supply levels while working on solutions to stabilize the trading environment.

The struggles faced by OK Zimbabwe reflect broader issues within Zimbabwe’s retail sector, which has been severely impacted by ongoing economic volatility and a persistent currency crisis.

The Impact of Informal Trading

Last year, OK Zimbabwe’s CEO, Max Karombo, openly criticized the government for allowing informal traders to thrive without regulation or taxation, which he argued was detrimental to the formal retail sector.

His comments drew sharp criticism from Treasury Permanent Secretary George Guvamatanga, who suggested that Karombo and his leadership team should resign from their positions at OK Zimbabwe.

Despite facing backlash for his statements, Karombo remained steadfast in his concerns about the impact of informal trading on legitimate businesses.

The situation has become increasingly dire, with several retail companies—such as Food World and Choppies Zimbabwe—forced to shut down due to similar challenges.

A Call for Action

As OK Zimbabwe navigates these turbulent waters, the company’s commitment to transparency and collaboration with stakeholders will be crucial in overcoming current obstacles.

The broader implications of its struggles highlight the urgent need for regulatory reforms that support formal businesses while addressing the challenges posed by informal trading.

With the retail sector facing unprecedented pressures, it is essential for both government and industry leaders to work together to create a more stable economic environment that fosters growth and sustainability.

As consumers await improvements in product availability, OK Zimbabwe’s resolve will be tested in these challenging times.

Nehanda radio