Visual Merchandiser Learnership 2026

Visual Merchandiser Learnership 2026: 12-Month Training Opportunity Closing 31 March

Visual Merchandiser Learnership 2026: Important Details, Requirements and How to Apply

The Visual Merchandiser Learnership 2026 is now open for applications across selected regions in South Africa. Offered by Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA), this 12-month structured programme is designed to equip unemployed youth with practical retail, merchandising, and sales support skills.

If you are between 18 and 35 years old, have completed Grade 12, and are looking for structured workplace experience in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, this opportunity provides hands-on exposure in real retail environments.

๐Ÿ“… Closing Date: 31 March 2026
๐Ÿ“ Location: Selected regions in KwaZulu-Natal
โณ Duration: 12 months

Retail and FMCG industries remain key drivers of employment in South Africa. Programmes like this help young people move from unemployment into structured, work-ready training.


Programme Overview

The Visual Merchandiser Learnership 2026 is structured around practical, in-store execution and merchandising standards.

Key Programme Details:

  • Company: Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA)
  • Reference Number: CCB260216-2
  • Programme Duration: 12 months
  • Minimum Credits Required: 120 credits
  • Work Structure: Classroom learning + on-the-job store exposure

Learners will operate within assigned geographic areas and report to an Account Developer while supporting sales teams and retail partners.


Available Areas

The learnership is available in the following regions:

  • Pietermaritzburg
  • Marianhill
  • Newcastle
  • Stanger
  • Durban
  • Vryheid

Applicants should ensure they are available to work in these regions before applying.


What Is the Purpose of the Visual Merchandiser Learnership 2026?

The programme is designed to build practical skills in:

  • Merchandising execution
  • Retail operations
  • Stock management
  • Customer service
  • Sales support processes
  • Order-taking systems

Unlike purely theoretical courses, this learnership places learners directly in retail environments where they gain real, measurable experience.

The focus is on preparing participants for entry-level roles in:

  • Retail sales
  • FMCG merchandising
  • Account support
  • In-store brand execution

What You Will Actually Do During the Programme

In-Store Merchandising and Execution

Throughout the 12 months, learners will:

  • Execute daily store call schedules
  • Implement merchandising standards
  • Maintain proper product placement
  • Monitor stock levels and rotation
  • Ensure product visibility and availability
  • Support order placement via the MyCCBA platform
  • Assist with promotional activities
  • Complete execution scorecards and digital surveys

This daily operational exposure builds discipline and attention to detail โ€” critical skills in retail environments.

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Professional Exposure and Workplace Learning

Participants will interact with:

  • Sales team members
  • Account developers
  • Store managers
  • Retail customers
  • Consumers

This develops:

  • Communication skills
  • Accountability
  • Commercial awareness
  • Team collaboration
  • Professional conduct

The learnership environment mirrors real-world retail expectations.


Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Grade 12 (Matric)
  • Mathematics or Maths Literacy (minimum 40%)
  • English and a second language (minimum 40%)
  • South African citizen
  • Between 18 and 35 years old
  • Unemployed at time of appointment
  • Not currently studying full-time
  • Not enrolled in another learnership
  • Not previously completed the same qualification
  • Employment Equity candidate
  • No criminal record
  • No adverse credit record
  • Willing to undergo verification checks
  • Available to work six days per week

Failure to meet these requirements may result in disqualification.


Advantageous but Not Mandatory

The following are beneficial but not compulsory:

  • Valid driverโ€™s licence
  • Post-matric qualification in Sales or Marketing

A driverโ€™s licence can be useful in areas requiring travel between retail outlets.


What Qualification Will You Receive?

Upon successful completion of the Visual Merchandiser Learnership 2026 and achievement of the required 120 credits, learners will receive a nationally recognised qualification aligned with retail and merchandising standards.

This strengthens employability in roles such as:

  • Sales assistant
  • Merchandiser
  • Retail supervisor
  • Account support representative
  • FMCG operations assistant

While permanent employment is not guaranteed, the structured experience and qualification significantly improve job prospects.


What You Will Gain from This Programme

Participants gain more than certification.

Benefits Include:

  • 12 months of practical retail exposure
  • Experience with a nationally recognised brand
  • Structured workplace discipline
  • Sales and merchandising knowledge
  • Improved professional confidence
  • Exposure to FMCG industry standards

For many young candidates, this type of programme becomes a gateway into long-term retail careers.


Why the Visual Merchandiser Learnership 2026 Matters in 2026

Retail remains one of South Africaโ€™s largest employment sectors. However, employers increasingly require both education and experience.

Many job seekers struggle because they lack workplace exposure.

This learnership addresses that gap by:

  • Providing structured training
  • Offering real store-based learning
  • Developing measurable retail skills

The combination of formal qualification and 12 months of workplace exposure strengthens a candidateโ€™s competitive advantage.


Required Documents

Applicants must submit:

  • Detailed CV
  • Certified copy of Matric certificate
  • Certified copy of additional qualifications (if applicable)
  • Copy of driverโ€™s licence (if available)

Ensure:

  • Documents are clearly certified
  • Information is accurate
  • Contact details are correct

Incomplete applications may not be considered.


How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online via the official Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa recruitment portal:

๐Ÿ‘‰ https://ccba.erecruit.co/candidateapp/Jobs/View/CCB260216-2

๐Ÿ“… Closing Date: 31 March 2026

Apply early to avoid technical delays near the deadline.

Visual Merchandiser Learnership 2026
Visual Merchandiser Learnership 2026

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Visual Merchandiser Learnership 2026 paid?

Learnerships in South Africa typically include a monthly stipend. Specific details are usually communicated during recruitment.

2. Can I apply if I am currently studying?

No. Applicants must not be enrolled in full-time studies or another learnership.

3. Do I need previous retail experience?

No. Prior retail experience is not required.

4. Is a driverโ€™s licence compulsory?

No. It is advantageous but not mandatory.

5. What happens after the 12 months?

Permanent employment is not guaranteed. However, the qualification and experience significantly improve employability in retail and FMCG sectors.

Final Advice for Applicants

Before applying:

โœ” Update your CV professionally
โœ” Ensure your contact details are correct
โœ” Prepare certified documents in advance
โœ” Confirm you meet all eligibility criteria
โœ” Apply before 31 March 2026

The Visual Merchandiser Learnership 2026 offers structured training, practical exposure, and recognised certification within a leading beverage company.

If you are ready to gain real retail experience and build commercial skills, submit your application before the deadline.

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