South Africa’s rapidly expanding health and wellness sector is creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs, with demand for organic, natural and sustainable products continuing to reshape consumer spending.
That growth will be on display at the Organic & Natural Products Expo Africa, taking place at the Sandton Convention Centre from 7 to 9 August 2026. The event will bring together producers, retailers, buyers and investors as businesses seek to capitalise on one of the country’s fastest-growing consumer markets.
According to research by IMARC Group, South Africa’s health and wellness market is projected to grow from US$27.9 billion in 2025 to US$42.5 billion by 2034. Rising interest in preventative healthcare, healthier eating, fitness and environmentally responsible products is driving demand across multiple sectors.
The growth is creating opportunities for entrepreneurs operating in organic food and beverages, natural personal care, wellness products, sustainable packaging, renewable energy solutions and environmentally conscious consumer goods.
Since launching its Johannesburg edition in 2022, Organic & Natural Products Expo Africa has grown into an important marketplace where entrepreneurs connect with retailers, distributors and potential export partners.
“As consumer preferences evolve, we are seeing growing demand for products that support healthier lifestyles and more sustainable patterns of consumption,” said Deenash Pillay, Head of Small Enterprises at Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking.
He said the continued expansion of the expo reflects broader industry growth, with more businesses entering the market and consumers increasingly seeking healthier and more sustainable alternatives.
For Co-Founder Warren Hickinbotham, the event has become far more than a trade exhibition.
“The expo has become an important platform for connecting entrepreneurs with market opportunities. The continued expansion of the sector is creating opportunities for entrepreneurs operating across organic food and beverages, natural personal care, wellness products, sustainable packaging, renewable energy solutions and other environmentally conscious industries,” he said.
As headline sponsor, Standard Bank will participate in discussions focused on improving market access, strengthening business capability and supporting entrepreneurs operating in high-growth sectors.
The three-day event will also feature discussions on funding, export opportunities, retail market access and brand building as the industry continues to strengthen its contribution to South Africa’s economy.
