SPAR YES Merchandiser Learnerships 2026

The SPAR YES Merchandiser Learnerships 2026 offer an excellent opportunity for unemployed youth to gain hands-on experience in the retail sector while developing valuable workplace skills. The programme is facilitated by Smollan, a leading retail solutions provider that partners with major retailers including SPAR. This opportunity is designed to help young South Africans enter the workforce through the Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative, providing practical retail exposure and career development.

---

About Smollan and SPAR

Smollan is known for delivering innovative retail execution and merchandising solutions across Africa and internationally. Through its Smollan Academy, the company invests heavily in developing young talent and preparing them for long-term careers in retail and sales.

SPAR is one of the largest retail grocery chains globally, with a strong presence in South Africa. Working within SPAR stores provides learners with real-world retail experience in a fast-paced and customer-focused environment.

---

Learnership Overview

This learnership focuses on preparing participants for a career in merchandising, one of the most important functions in retail. Merchandisers ensure that store shelves are stocked, products are displayed attractively, and customers have a smooth shopping experience.

Learners will gain practical skills in:

• Stock management and product placement
• Visual merchandising and store layout planning
• Pricing and promotional display management
• Customer interaction and product knowledge

This programme is ideal for candidates who enjoy working in retail environments and want to develop sales and merchandising expertise.

---

Duties and Responsibilities

Participants in the programme will be responsible for a range of retail duties that directly influence store performance and sales.

These include:

• Counting and managing stock levels
• Unpacking and organising new product deliveries
• Creating attractive product displays and signage
• Ensuring shelves are always stocked and well presented
• Removing expired or damaged products
• Maintaining a clean and organised store environment

Merchandisers also play a key role in ensuring that promotional products are displayed correctly and that pricing is accurate.

---

What You Will Learn During the Programme

During the learnership, participants will gain both technical and soft skills, including:

• Retail operations and store management fundamentals
• Visual merchandising principles
• Customer service and communication skills
• Teamwork and workplace professionalism
• Time management and task prioritisation

These skills are transferable across multiple sectors, making this programme valuable even beyond retail.

Daily Tasks in the Merchandiser Role

A typical day in this role involves a mix of physical work, planning, and customer interaction. Key daily tasks include:

• Checking stock levels and replenishing shelves
• Ensuring products are displayed according to brand guidelines
• Assisting customers with product queries
• Working with store management and marketing teams
• Keeping the storeroom and shop floor clean and organised

These responsibilities help ensure a positive shopping experience and improved store performance.

Skills and Competencies

Although not mandatory, the following will strengthen your application:

• Previous experience in retail or merchandising
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work well in a team environment
• Confidence in dealing with customers

Candidates with experience as retail assistants, sales consultants, or shop assistants may adapt more quickly to the role.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for the SPAR YES Merchandiser Learnerships 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Matric certificate (Grade 12)
• South African ID
• Clear criminal record
• Basic understanding of English
• Reside within 15km of the job location
• Own a smartphone

Applicants must also be prepared to submit supporting documentation, including:

• SARS letter
• Bank confirmation letter

Successful candidates will be required to use a Vodacom SIM card for work-related communication.

How to apply 

Apply here online for SPAR YES Merchandiser Learnerships 2026

Closing date: Not specified