Pepkor: W&R SETA Funded Learnership 2026 (x2 Posts)
Pepkor, the parent company of major South African retailers like PEP, Ackermans, and Tekkie Town, is offering a W&R SETA Funded Learnership. This program is designed to equip unemployed youth with essential retail skills, combining classroom-based theory with practical experience in a high-volume retail environment.
1. Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Employer | Pepkor (In partnership with W&R SETA) |
| Position | Retail Learner (x2 Posts) |
| Location | Various (Regional Hubs or Retail Stores) |
| Closing Date | 28 April 2026 |
| Duration | 12 Months |
| Qualification | National Certificate: Wholesale & Retail Operations (NQF Level 2 or 3) |
| Stipend | Monthly allowance (SETA-regulated) |
2. Minimum Requirements
Pepkor seeks energetic individuals ready to start their career in the retail sector:
Education: Grade 12 (Matric) is the standard requirement.
Status: Must be an unemployed South African citizen aged 18–35.
Experience: No previous work experience is required (this is an entry-level youth development initiative).
Skills: * Basic numerical skills (for stock and cash handling).
Good communication skills in English.
A positive, "customer-first" attitude.
Documentation: Valid South African ID and a clean criminal record.
3. Key Responsibilities
Learners will be rotated through various functions of a retail store to gain a 360-degree view of the business:
Customer Service: Assisting customers on the floor, locating products, and answering queries.
Point of Sale (POS): Learning how to process transactions, handle cash, and manage digital payments accurately.
Merchandising: Ensuring shelves are stocked according to the "planogram," pricing items correctly, and maintaining floor neatness.
Stock Management: Assisting with the receiving of stock, checking deliveries against invoices, and conducting stock takes.
Safety & Security: Following loss-prevention protocols and ensuring the store environment is safe for both staff and shoppers.
4. How to Apply
Pepkor manages its learnership applications through its centralized Careers Portal.
Online Portal: Visit the
Pepkor Careers Page .Search: Use the keyword "Learnership" or "W&R SETA".
Required Documents:
A professional CV.
Certified copy of your ID.
Certified copy of your Matric Certificate.
Submission: Ensure you apply for the specific region closest to you. You will likely be asked to complete a short online assessment (logical reasoning or basic math) as part of the application.
5. Important Advice for 2026
The "Pepkor Culture": Pepkor values "Honesty, Passion, and Resourcefulness." In your interview or motivation letter, highlight a time you showed initiative or helped someone.
W&R SETA Compliance: Because this is a SETA-funded role, you will be required to keep a Logbook. Mentioning that you are organized and diligent with paperwork is a plus.
Retail Readiness: Retail involves long hours on your feet and working on weekends/public holidays. Confirming your flexibility with these shifts will make you a stronger candidate.
Neatness Counts: If you are invited for an interview at a store or regional office, ensure you are neatly groomed. In retail, your appearance is part of the brand.
6. Why Join Pepkor?
Massive Network: As Africa’s largest non-grocery retailer, a learnership at Pepkor carries significant weight on your CV.
Accredited Learning: You earn a nationally recognized qualification while getting paid.
Permanent Potential: While not guaranteed, Pepkor often absorbs high-performing learners into permanent Sales Assistant or Cashier roles.
Skill Development: You gain transferable skills in logistics, sales, and financial literacy.
Tip: Before your interview, visit a PEP or Ackermans store. Look at how the clothes are folded or how the queues are managed. Mentioning a specific observation about their service shows you are observant and genuinely interested!

