Young South Africans looking to launch a career in the logistics and retail industry have an exciting opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience through the Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Programme 2026. Supported by the Wholesale and Retail SETA (W&R SETA), this structured programme provides graduates and TVET students with practical workplace learning at one of South Africa’s largest retail groups.
Based in Rosslyn, Pretoria, the programme is designed to bridge the gap between education and employment by giving participants real-world exposure to supply chain operations, logistics processes, and professional development.
Graduates will work alongside experienced professionals, receive structured mentorship, and build practical skills that can significantly improve their future employability within South Africa’s retail and logistics sectors.
Programme Overview
| Programme | Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Programme 2026 |
|---|---|
| Company | Pepkor Lifestyle |
| Programme Type | Graduate Programme / Internship |
| Funding | Wholesale & Retail SETA (W&R SETA) |
| Location | Rosslyn, Pretoria, Gauteng |
| Industry | Retail & Supply Chain |
| Duration | 12 Months (Graduates) |
| TVET WIL Duration | 18 Months |
| Qualification | Degree, Diploma or TVET N6 |
| Field of Study | Logistics and Supply Chain Management |
| Employment Status | Internship |
| Age Requirement | Under 32 Years |
| Closing Date | 14 July 2026 |
About the Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Programme
The Pepkor Lifestyle Graduate Programme is designed to develop talented graduates by providing structured workplace learning in a professional retail logistics environment.
Participants will receive hands-on experience across different business functions while working under the guidance of experienced professionals. The programme focuses on developing practical workplace skills that complement academic qualifications and prepare graduates for long-term careers.
TVET graduates who require Work Integrated Learning (WIL) to complete their qualifications will participate in an 18-month workplace programme, while university graduates will complete a 12-month graduate internship.
What the Programme Offers
Successful applicants can expect to benefit from:
- W&R SETA-funded workplace learning
- Structured graduate development programme
- Professional mentoring and coaching
- Exposure to large-scale retail logistics operations
- Practical workplace experience
- Career development opportunities
- Hands-on project experience
- Networking with industry professionals
- Opportunity to build valuable workplace skills
Duties and Responsibilities
During the programme, graduates may be expected to:
- Attend all induction and onboarding sessions.
- Participate in workplace training programmes.
- Perform duties under the supervision of experienced professionals.
- Conduct research on industry trends and new technologies.
- Assist with logistics and supply chain activities.
- Visit stores and operational sites to gain practical experience.
- Prepare reports and presentations.
- Support departmental projects.
- Complete assigned workplace tasks.
- Contribute to achieving business objectives.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Minimum Qualifications
Applicants should have one of the following:
- Degree in Logistics or Supply Chain Management
- Diploma in Logistics or Supply Chain Management
- TVET College N6 qualification in Logistics and Supply Chain Management requiring Work Integrated Learning (WIL)
General Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be unemployed
- Be a South African citizen
- Possess a valid South African ID
- Be younger than 32 years
- Have completed studies at an accredited institution
- Be willing to work in Rosslyn, Pretoria
- Candidates living with disabilities are encouraged to apply
Required Competencies
Pepkor Lifestyle is looking for graduates who demonstrate:
- Ability to learn quickly
- Initiative and self-motivation
- Adaptability
- Strong work ethic
- Good communication skills
- Analytical thinking
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving ability
- Professional presentation skills
- Customer service orientation
- Relationship-building skills
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the following certified documents before applying:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified South African ID copy (not older than three months)
- Certified qualification certificate(s)
- Academic transcript or latest tertiary results
Applicants who submit all required documents correctly will receive first consideration during the recruitment process.
Skills You Will Gain
Participants can develop valuable workplace skills including:
- Supply Chain Operations
- Inventory Management
- Warehouse Operations
- Retail Logistics
- Business Communication
- Professional Reporting
- Research Skills
- Data Analysis
- Presentation Skills
- Team Collaboration
- Workplace Problem Solving
- Customer Service Excellence
Career Opportunities
Completing this programme can open opportunities such as:
- Logistics Administrator
- Supply Chain Coordinator
- Distribution Planner
- Inventory Controller
- Warehouse Coordinator
- Retail Operations Administrator
- Procurement Administrator
- Logistics Analyst
- Distribution Assistant
- Supply Chain Officer
The workplace experience gained can significantly strengthen future employment prospects within retail, logistics, manufacturing, wholesale, and distribution industries.
Application Tips
To improve your chances of being shortlisted:
- Submit your application well before the closing date.
- Ensure all certified documents are clear and valid.
- Keep your CV updated with your latest qualifications.
- Highlight any practical projects or workplace experience.
- Double-check that your contact details are correct.
- Carefully read all application instructions before submitting.
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Where to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their applications through the official Pepkor Lifestyle Careers recruitment portal before the closing date.
Ensure that all required supporting documents are uploaded together with your application to receive priority consideration.
Closing Date
Closing Date: 14 July 2026
Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this programme paid?
The vacancy advert confirms that this is a W&R SETA-funded workplace learning programme, but it does not specify the stipend amount.
Who can apply?
South African unemployed graduates and TVET students with qualifications in Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
Is Work Integrated Learning included?
Yes. TVET graduates requiring Work Integrated Learning will complete an 18-month programme.
What is the duration?
- Graduate Internship: 12 months
- TVET Work Integrated Learning: 18 months
Can graduates with disabilities apply?
Yes. Pepkor Lifestyle encourages applications from candidates with and without disabilities.
What qualification is required?
Applicants should have a Degree, Diploma or N6 qualification in Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
What is the age limit?
Applicants must be under 32 years old.
Editorial Policy
This article has been prepared for informational purposes using details published in the official recruitment advertisement. We are not affiliated with Pepkor Lifestyle or the Wholesale & Retail SETA. Applicants should verify all programme information and submit applications through the employer’s official recruitment platform. We do not charge any fees for application information and encourage readers to beware of recruitment scams.
Sources and References
- Pepkor Lifestyle Official Careers Recruitment Advertisement
- Wholesale & Retail SETA (W&R SETA) Work Integrated Learning Programme Information
- Programme details published by Pepkor Lifestyle Recruitment Team
