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Dating Services - South Africa

South Africa
  • Revenue in the Dating Services market is projected to reach US$23.80m in 2024.
  • Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2029) of -0.99%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$22.65m by 2029.
  • The Online Dating market has a projected market volume of US$12.28m in 2024.
  • In global comparison, most revenue will be generated United States (US$2.55bn in 2024).
  • The average revenue per user (ARPU) in the Dating Services market is projected to amount to US$3.51 in 2024.
  • In the Dating Services market, the number of users is expected to amount to 9.4m users by 2029.
  • User penetration in the Dating Services market will be at 11.1% in 2024.

Definition:

Dating Services refer to digital platforms facilitating connections and relationships between individuals through online interactions and meetings. Users engage in various forms of dating, ranging from casual encounters to long-term relationships, facilitated by matchmaking algorithms and user preferences.

Structure:

The Dating Services market encompasses user and revenue development across three main segments: (1) Online Dating, (2) Casual Dating, and (3) Matchmaking. Online Dating platforms enable users to create profiles, browse other profiles, and communicate with potential partners through messaging or video chats. Casual Dating platforms focus on facilitating casual relationships, hookups, and short-term connections among users seeking non-committal interactions. Matchmaking services use algorithms and personalized services to match individuals based on compatibility, interests, and relationship goals, often targeting users seeking long-term relationships or marriage.

Additional Information:

Revenue figures include subscription fees, in-app purchases, and advertising revenue within the Dating Services market. User and revenue figures primarily represent B2C services, focusing on individual users seeking romantic connections and relationships.

In-Scope

  • Matchmaking for the search for life partners such as Matrimony.com
  • Online Dating for easy flirting and chatting such as Tinder and Bumble
  • Casual Dating for the search for non-committal sex such as Ashley Madison

Out-Of-Scope

  • Niche dating, such as portals or apps for vegetarians
  • Offline dating agencies
  • Speed dating or similar events for singles
Dating Services: market data & analysis  - Cover

Market Insights report

Dating Services: market data & analysis

Study Details

    Revenue

    Notes: Data was converted from local currencies using average exchange rates of the respective year.

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Analyst Opinion

    The Dating Services market in South Africa is experiencing significant growth and development due to changing customer preferences, emerging trends in the market, local special circumstances, and underlying macroeconomic factors. Customer preferences in the Dating Services market in South Africa are shifting towards online platforms and mobile applications. With the increasing penetration of smartphones and internet connectivity, more people are turning to online dating services to find potential partners. This shift is driven by the convenience and accessibility offered by online platforms, allowing individuals to connect with others from the comfort of their own homes. Additionally, the anonymity provided by online dating services appeals to many South Africans who may feel more comfortable expressing themselves online rather than in person. Trends in the market also contribute to the development of the Dating Services industry in South Africa. One such trend is the rise of niche dating platforms catering to specific interests or communities. These platforms allow individuals with similar backgrounds, hobbies, or preferences to connect and form meaningful relationships. This trend reflects the growing demand for personalized and targeted dating experiences, as people seek to find partners who share their values and interests. Another trend in the market is the integration of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, into dating platforms. These technologies enable better matching algorithms and personalized recommendations, enhancing the overall user experience. By analyzing user data and preferences, dating platforms can provide more accurate and relevant suggestions, increasing the chances of successful matches. Local special circumstances also play a role in the development of the Dating Services market in South Africa. The country has a diverse population with various cultural and ethnic backgrounds, which creates a demand for dating services that cater to specific communities. Platforms that understand and cater to the unique needs and preferences of different cultural groups are likely to gain popularity and attract a larger user base. Underlying macroeconomic factors, such as urbanization and changing social norms, also contribute to the growth of the Dating Services market in South Africa. As more people migrate to urban areas, the pool of potential partners increases, leading to a higher demand for dating services. Additionally, changing social norms, including an increasing acceptance of online dating, contribute to the growing popularity of dating platforms in the country. In conclusion, the Dating Services market in South Africa is developing due to changing customer preferences towards online platforms, emerging trends in the market, local special circumstances, and underlying macroeconomic factors. The shift towards online dating, the rise of niche platforms, the integration of advanced technologies, and the diverse cultural landscape of the country all contribute to the growth and development of the industry. As South Africa continues to urbanize and embrace online dating, the Dating Services market is expected to further expand in the coming years.

    Users

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Global Comparison

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Methodology

    Data coverage:

    The data encompasses B2C enterprises. Figures are based on Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) and represent what consumers pay for these products and services. The user metrics show the number of customers who have made at least one online purchase within the past 12 months.

    Modeling approach / Market size:

    Market sizes are determined through a bottom-up approach, building on predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use annual financial reports of the market-leading companies, third-party studies and reports, as well as survey results from our primary research (e.g., the Statista Global Consumer Survey). In addition, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as GDP, GDP per capita, and internet connection speed. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

    Forecasts:

    In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, the S-curve function and exponential trend smoothing. The main drivers are internet users, urban population, usage of key players, and attitudes toward online services.

    Additional notes:

    The market is updated twice a year in case market dynamics change. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. GCS data is reweighted for representativeness.

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    Dating Services: market data & analysis  - BackgroundDating Services: market data & analysis  - Cover

    Key Market Indicators

    Notes: Based on data from IMF, World Bank, UN and Eurostat

    Most recent update: Sep 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

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