How Build It Became a Powerhouse in Hardware Retail
How Build It Became a Powerhouse in Hardware Retail. Since its founding in 1986, Build It, a division of SPAR Group Limited South Africa, has grown into a powerhouse in the hardware and building materials industry. With over 400 stores across Southern Africa, the brand has established itself as a trusted provider of construction supplies.
But Build It’s journey wasn’t just about selling bricks and cement—it was about building communities, supporting entrepreneurs, and adapting to market needs. This story unpacks the strategies and milestones that made Build It a success and offers valuable lessons for business owners looking to create strong, sustainable brands.
A Unique Business Model: Voluntary Trading and Community Roots
One of the biggest factors behind Build It’s success is its voluntary trading model. Unlike a traditional franchise, this model allows independent business owners to operate under the Build It brand while maintaining a level of autonomy.
Key Takeaway for Entrepreneurs: A flexible business model that supports independent operators while maintaining strong brand identity can be a game-changer. Offering entrepreneurs the freedom to manage their stores while providing them with brand strength and supplier advantages can lead to rapid expansion.
Strategic Growth: Expansion Across Southern Africa
From a single store to over 400 locations, Build It’s strategic expansion played a crucial role in its success. Instead of growing recklessly, the company ensured each store was well-positioned to serve local communities, particularly in developing regions where access to quality building materials was limited.The brand also successfully expanded beyond South Africa into Namibia, Eswatini, Lesotho, and Mozambique, proving its ability to adapt to different markets.
Key Takeaway for Entrepreneurs: When expanding a business, focus on sustainable, strategic growth. Understand the needs of each new market before entering, and ensure that expansion efforts align with customer demand and local economic conditions.
Building Trust Through Quality and Customer Service
Build It built its reputation not just through affordable prices but by ensuring that quality and customer service were top priorities. As a brand that caters to both contractors and everyday consumers, they ensured that their stores provided expert advice, reliable materials, and after-sales support.
Key Takeaway for Entrepreneurs:Price matters, but trust matters more. If customers believe in your product and service, they will return and recommend your brand to others. Prioritizing quality, expertise, and customer relationships can lead to long-term success.
Lessons from Build It’s Success
Build It’s journey from a small business to a major Southern African retail force is a testament to smart strategy, strong values, and a commitment to growth. Entrepreneurs looking to build their own successful brands can learn the following from Build It’s story:
- Choose the Right Business Model: A flexible yet structured approach, like the voluntary trading model, can drive long-term success.
- Expand Strategically: Grow sustainably, ensuring new markets align with your brand’s capabilities.
- Prioritize Quality & Service: Price alone won’t create loyalty—trust and reliability will.
- Give Back to Communities: Social responsibility strengthens brand reputation and customer loyalty.
- Stay Resilient: Challenges will come—adapt, innovate, and push forward.
