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Fast Food Report 2026 Hero Image
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Fast Food Report 2026 Hero Image

SOUTH AFRICA'S INDUSTRY REPORTS

Insights for marketers brought to you
by Rogerwilco and YOUKNOW.

Welcome to the Rogerwilco and YOUKNOW 2026 Industry Reports mini-website! This is your go-to place for insightful research, expert analysis, and practical guidance on three key industries in South Africa: Automotive, Retail and Banking.

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SOUTH AFRICA'S AUTOMOTIVE REPORT

What’s driving South Africa’s automotive industry in 2026? Our latest report breaks down the key trends and consumer sentiments shaping the road ahead. Get the insights you need to keep up with the shifts and stay ahead of the competition.

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Winner Winner Chicken Dinner Section Image
Insights

WINNER, WINNER, CHICKEN DINNER

Chicken dominates social media conversation, online search and actual consumption, making it South Africa’s undisputed fast-food category leader.

growth in Pedros customers since 2023
127%
of top 10 “near me” searches are about chicken brands
66%
South Africans choose chicken at QSRs
22 M
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More bang for your buck
Insights

MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK

Consumers are no longer chasing the cheapest meal. They are rewarding brands that deliver the strongest balance of value, quality and portion size. Pedros shows up as a serious new contender.

decline in people who reported eating fast-food in the past four months
4%
decline in McDonald's and Steers customers
20% +
Pedros customers in 2025
2.5 M
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Consumer become food critics
Insights

CONSUMERS BECOME FOOD CRITICS

Customer experience has become public, with every meal review, complaint and recommendation shaping brand reception in real time.

decline in Debonairs mentions
33%
decline in Roman's Pizza mentions
24%
growth in category conversations
16%
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Insights

FROM UNDERDOG TO WORLD LEADER

Chery has transformed from a newcomer into a hot topic when talking about passenger cars, proving that when a brand stays visible, it stays at the top of the consumer’s mind.

increase in Chery mentions, making it the most talked-about passenger car brand
510%
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Insights

GRIT MEETS GROWTH

As buyers become more deliberate with their spending, Mahindra’s reputation for rugged durability is making it a primary contender for those who value longevity over all else.

increase in Mahindra mentions, driven by durability and workhorse positioning
215%
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Insights

The digital star(let)

A massive spike in online interest suggests that the Toyota Starlet is becoming a staple on consumers’ shortlists long before they ever set foot on a dealership floor.

spike in monthly search volume for the Toyota Starlet, signalling rising consumer interest
108%
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Insights

RESEARCHING IN THE FAST LANE

The modern car-buying journey now starts on a smartphone rather than in a showroom, with nearly every purchaser using digital tools to narrow down their final choices.

of car buyers use digital channels to research vehicles before purchase
90%
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