Cape Town, South Africa — Pick n Pay Opens Wholesale & Retail Operations Learnership (NQF Level 3) in Cape Town, offering young South Africans an opportunity to gain practical retail skills, workplace experience, and a nationally recognised qualification in 2026.
Overview of the Pick n Pay Wholesale & Retail Operations Learnership
The Pick n Pay Wholesale & Retail Operations Learnership is a structured skills development programme aligned to NQF Level 3. It combines theoretical learning with practical, on-the-job training in real retail environments, allowing participants to develop job-ready skills while working within one of South Africa’s largest retail groups.
The programme forms part of Pick n Pay’s ongoing commitment to youth development, skills transfer, and employment readiness, particularly for candidates who may not yet have formal work experience.
Why This Learnership Is Important in 2026
Retail and wholesale remain key drivers of employment in South Africa, especially in metropolitan areas such as Cape Town. As competition for entry-level jobs increases, employers are placing greater emphasis on formal training, workplace exposure, and demonstrated competence.
This learnership responds directly to those needs by:
- Providing recognised training linked to national standards
- Bridging the gap between education and employment
- Improving participants’ long-term employability
- Supporting transformation and inclusion within the retail sector
For many young people, it represents a first step into the formal economy.
What the Learnership Covers
Core Learning Areas
Participants enrolled in the programme are exposed to a range of retail and wholesale competencies, including:
- Customer service and customer interaction
- Stock control and merchandising principles
- Wholesale and retail operations processes
- Basic retail administration
- Workplace health and safety
- Professional conduct and teamwork
The curriculum is designed to ensure learners understand both the operational and service-oriented sides of the retail environment.
Programme Structure
The learnership follows a blended learning model, which typically includes:
- Classroom-based or facilitated learning to cover theory
- Practical workplace training at Pick n Pay locations
- Ongoing assessments to measure progress and competence
Learners receive guidance from experienced supervisors and facilitators throughout the programme, ensuring skills are developed in line with industry expectations.
Related Opportunities 2026
- Funding Bursaries
- Youth Opportunities
- Internship Programme
- Learnership Programme
- Online Courses
- Government Education Updates
Who Can Apply for the Pick n Pay Learnership?
Minimum Entry Requirements
Applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Have completed Grade 9, Grade 10, Grade 11, or Grade 12
- Be willing to work in a retail or wholesale environment
- Be committed to completing the full learnership duration
No previous work experience is required, making this opportunity suitable for school leavers and first-time job seekers.
Location: Cape Town
This specific learnership opportunity is listed under City of Cape Town, meaning successful applicants are likely to be placed at Pick n Pay stores or related operations within the Cape Town area. Candidates residing nearby may find it easier to attend training and workplace components.
Skills and Experience You Will Gain
Completing the Wholesale & Retail Operations Learnership equips participants with transferable skills that are useful beyond a single employer, including:
- Communication and customer engagement
- Time management and punctuality
- Understanding of retail workflows
- Basic problem-solving in a work environment
- Professional workplace behaviour
These skills are valuable across retail, wholesale, logistics, and customer service roles.
Career Opportunities After the Learnership
While employment is not guaranteed, learners who successfully complete the programme may pursue roles such as:
- Retail assistant
- Cashier
- Merchandising assistant
- Stock or inventory assistant
- Entry-level wholesale operations roles
Some participants may also choose to continue their education through higher-level retail or business qualifications.
Official Application Process
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through Pick n Pay’s official careers portal, hosted on Workday. No applications are accepted via email or walk-ins.
Official application link (Cape Town listing): https://picknpay.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/PNP_Careers/job/City-of-Cape-Town/Learnership-Wholesale—Retail-Operations–NQF-Level-3-_JR103416-1?q=Learnership
Application Steps
- Open the official link above
- Review the learnership details carefully
- Click the “Apply” button
- Create or log in to your Workday profile
- Upload your CV and required information
- Submit your application
Pick n Pay does not charge any fees for applications. Applicants are advised to avoid third-party websites claiming guaranteed placement.
Documents to Prepare Before Applying
To ensure a smooth application process, candidates should have:
- An updated CV
- A valid South African ID
- Accurate contact details
- A short motivation highlighting interest in retail (optional but helpful)
Final Word
The Pick n Pay Wholesale & Retail Operations Learnership (NQF Level 3) in Cape Town offers a credible opportunity for young South Africans seeking structured training and workplace exposure in 2026. With accessible entry requirements and a recognised qualification, it remains a practical option for those interested in building a career in retail or wholesale operations.
Applicants are encouraged to apply via the official Pick n Pay careers portal and ensure all information is accurate before submission.
Closing date: Not specified by Pick n Pay. Applications remain open until positions are filled and may close without notice.
