Massmart 12-Month Retail Learnership Programme 2026

Massmart, the massive retail group behind trusted household brands like Game, Makro, and Builders, has officially opened applications for its highly anticipated 2026 Learnership Opportunity.

This structured 12-month fixed-term contract is specifically designed to target unemployed South African youth, providing them with work experience, essential business skills, and a path to long-term employment.

Instead of working a regular entry-level job, successful applicants enter a fully funded learning programme. Throughout the year, you will balance theoretical classroom training with hands on work experience in a real world retail environment.

Massmart is one of the largest distributive trade businesses on the African continent. To sustain their massive supply chain network, they rely heavily on highly efficient distribution hubs.

For the 2026 intake, successful learners will be primarily placed across Massmart's state of the art Distribution Centres. If you are based in the Gauteng region, this includes major logistics hubs such as:

• Riversands
• Gosforth
• Northfields

By training inside these high-volume facilities, you will gain a deep understanding of supply chain logistics, inventory management, and large-scale retail operations.

Upon successful completion of the 12 month program, learners will graduate with a nationally recognized Certificate in Wholesale and Retail Operations, drastically improving their CV and employability in the job market.

Massmart has structured this program to support entry level youth who have completed school but have struggled to find permanent employment due to a lack of work experience.

To be considered for a placement, you must meet the following criteria:

• Citizenship: You must be a legal South African citizen.
• Education: You must have successfully completed Grade 12 (Matric).
• Employment Status: You must be currently unemployed.
• Employment History: You must not have been permanently employed continuously for more than one year.
• Study Status: You must not be studying full time during the year of employment.
• Funding Status: You must not currently be registered on any other SETA-funded training program.
• Flexibility: You must be completely available and willing to work standard retail and logistics hours.

Massmart is an equal opportunity employer, and individuals living with disabilities who meet the criteria are highly encouraged to apply.

While a high school certificate is the baseline requirement, Massmart is looking for candidates who demonstrate the right attitude for a fast paced retail environment. The ideal candidate should show:

• A strong natural focus on customer service excellence.
• A genuine passion for the retail and supply chain industry.
• Basic digital savviness and comfort using modern workplace technology.
• Curiosity, critical thinking, and a willingness to solve daily operational challenges.
• Agility, adaptability, and an innovative mindset.