Xpress Batteries expands beyond South Africa with first Botswana store
correspondent | Wednesday August 5, 2026 13:50
The specialist battery centre, which is an authorised retailer and distributor of one of South Africa's leading battery brands, promises motorists reliable battery solutions backed by expert service and a 12-month warranty.
Speaking at the official opening, the local franchise said the business was established to keep Botswana's motorists on the road with quality products and technical expertise.
'Our goal is simple. It's to keep our vibrant community moving reliably, whether driving a car, truck, bakkie or motorcycle,' the local representative said.
He added; 'We are more than just a place to buy a battery. We are here to offer our expertise and peace of mind. We have an expert team ready to assist you, and we encourage everyone to take advantage of our opening special by bringing in their vehicles for a free battery test.'
The representative also acknowledged Auto X for partnering with the business to bring the venture to Botswana. export manager Mario De Oliveira said the company was impressed by the determination shown by the Botswana franchise owners in securing the brand.
'One of the vetting processes is finding someone with passion, someone who loves the brand and is committed to driving the business,' he said.
De Oliveira revealed that local entrepreneur Fahad persistently pursued the opportunity, repeatedly presenting business plans and demonstrating the potential of the Botswana market.
'He kept knocking on the door, coming up with plans and showing us there were opportunities in Botswana. He ticked all the right boxes,' he said.
He added that Express Batteries considers its franchisees custodians of the brand and pledged continued technical and operational support.
'We know you guys are going to do well. You have the relationships and you will grow from stage to stage, God willing,' he said.
Auto X XCE general manager Elize de Nysschen described the Botswana outlet as a historic milestone, noting that it is the first Express Batteries store to open beyond South Africa's borders.
'Because of these two gentlemen and the amazing team, we have officially taken Xpress Batteries outside of South Africa. This is our first store across the border,' she said.
'We trust and believe that partnering with you is one of the best decisions we've made, and we look forward to your expansion and success. We are here to walk the journey with you.'
As part of an Xpress Batteries tradition, De Nysschen presented the franchise owners with the symbolic first R100 note, a gesture given to every new store to mark the beginning of its trading journey.
'Now we know the Rand is weaker than thepula, but it's a South African concept. I hope there will be many, many more,' she said.