E-commerce and Beyond
Thu Oct 30, 17:00 - Thu Oct 30, 21:00
Innovation City Cape Town
ABOUT
Takealot grew into a household name by tackling the challenges of online retail — logistics, payments, and customer trust — in one of the most dynamic emerging markets.
Join us as Frederik Zietsman, CEO of Takealot, shares how the company scaled, what lessons can be drawn from their journey, and where the future of e-commerce in South Africa is headed.
The evening will also feature a breakout panel of industry leaders (topic TBC) diving into the trends shaping digital retail — from payments and logistics to social commerce and AI.
If you’re building a startup in South Africa, working in digital retail, or passionate about technology and innovation, this is your chance to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators — and gain insights that could shape the trajectory of your venture.
Theme: The Future of E-Commerce
Date: 30 October 2025
Main Event: 17:00 – 21:00
Location: Innovation City, Cape Town
Wine experience sponsored by Blaauwklippen
SPEAKERS
Frederik Zietsman – CEO of Takealot Group
Frederik Zietsman is the CEO of Takealot Group, South Africa’s largest online retailer. With a background in revenue growth and strategy, and as a qualified Chartered Management Accountant (CIMA), he is driving Takealot’s mission to innovate, scale, and transform how South Africans shop online.
Renier Kriel - Co-Founder and CEO of The Open Letter
Renier Kriel is an entrepreneur and digital expert with over 15 years of experience helping startups and businesses thrive through innovative digital solutions. He founded 4i, one of South Africa’s first digital agencies. Now, as the co-founder of The Open Letter, a newsletter for South African startups, Renier empowers entrepreneurs with insights and inspiration.
AGENDA
16:45 - Arrivals & registration
Arrive and register
17:00 - Panel: Online marketing in the age of AI
From agentic marketing campaigns, dynamic pricing and deep customer insights. AI is changing the e-commerce landscape for the better.
18:00 - Main Panel Discussion
Featuring Frederik Zietsman, CEO of Takealot and Renier Kriel, co-founder of The Open Letter
19:00 - Networking & Drinks
Join us for a relaxed networking session with drinks, making valuable connections with key players in the local startup ecosystem.
20:00 - Panel: The future of online payments
From payment operations, the impact of crypto payment and emerging technologies such as Payshap, what does the future of payments in the online commerce space look like?
21:00 - Event Close
PICTURES
PARTNERS
Our Premium Events Partner:
Partners of The Open Letter:
GENERAL
Parking: The venue does not supply parking. Please look for parking options around Kloof Street.
Right of Admission:
- Entrance is strictly for ticket holders only.
- No sales will be allowed at the door.
- Alcohol will be served only to guests over the age of 18.
- Please note that there are no refunds available.
General Information:
- Tickets are limited — don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn from and network with top industry leaders.
- Come ready to engage with like-minded professionals and gain valuable insights that can elevate your startup journey!