
SPAR YES 4 Youth Programme 2026 – 12-Month Paid Work Opportunity
The SPAR Group has officially opened applications for the YES 4 Youth Programme 2026, offering unemployed young South Africans a structured 12-month paid work opportunity across SPAR divisions, subsidiaries, central offices, and distribution centres nationwide.
If you have completed Matric and are ready to step into the working world, this programme could be your entry point into retail, logistics, pharmacy, engineering, IT, marketing, and business-related fields.
Programme Overview
- Programme: SPAR YES 4 Youth 2026
- Duration: 12 Months
- Target Group: Unemployed South African youth
- Minimum Qualification: Matric / Grade 12
- Age Requirement: 18–28 years
- Locations: SPAR divisions, central offices & distribution centres
- Fields: Retail, Engineering, Pharmacy, Business, Logistics, IT, Marketing & more
Shortlisted candidates will undergo JumpStart training followed by an interview process.
What Is the YES Programme?
The Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme is a national private-sector initiative designed to reduce youth unemployment in South Africa.
It bridges the gap between education and employment by providing young people with meaningful workplace exposure.
Participants receive:
- 12 months of structured work experience
- Retail and distribution centre exposure
- Corporate environment training
- Improved employability after completion
This is more than temporary employment — it’s a career-building foundation year.
Who Should Apply?
You qualify if you:
- Are a South African citizen
- Are between 18 and 28 years old
- Have completed Matric
- Are currently unemployed
- Are not studying full-time
- Have a clear criminal record
- Can work flexible retail shifts
Opportunities for Graduates & Trade-Qualified Candidates
In addition to entry-level retail roles, SPAR is also seeking candidates in:
- Engineering trades (Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing)
- Science
- Pharmacy
- Business & Accounting
- Human Resource Management
- Logistics & Supply Chain
- SHEQ
- Marketing
- IT
- Packaging & Warehouse-related fields
This makes the programme suitable for both school leavers and qualified graduates.
What You’ll Do
Duties depend on placement but may include:
- Retail store operations
- Warehouse and distribution support
- Inventory and supply chain processes
- Pharmacy assistance
- Administrative coordination
- Marketing support
- Engineering and maintenance tasks
Shortlisted applicants will attend JumpStart work-readiness training to prepare for interviews and workplace expectations.
How to Apply
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
- Certified copy of ID
- Matric certificate
- Updated CV
- Academic transcripts (if applicable)
Step 2: Apply Online
Follow the official SPAR application process.
Step 3: If Shortlisted
- Attend JumpStart training
- Attend interview
Apply early to avoid missing out.
Career Growth After Completion
After 12 months, participants gain:
- Recognised corporate work experience
- Retail and logistics exposure
- Professional references
- Stronger workplace confidence
- Transferable skills (communication, teamwork, time management)
Possible next steps include:
- Permanent roles within SPAR
- FMCG retail opportunities
- Supply chain or warehouse coordination roles
- Pharmacy assistant positions
- Entry-level business administration roles
- Marketing and operations support positions
Workplace experience within a major retail group significantly enhances long-term employability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent job?
No. It is a 12-month structured work opportunity under the YES framework.
Will participants be paid?
YES programmes typically include a monthly stipend.
Can part-time students apply?
Full-time students may not qualify. Part-time students should confirm eligibility during application.
Is the programme available nationwide?
Yes, placements are across SPAR divisions and distribution centres. Availability may vary by region.
Can graduates apply?
Yes. Graduates in relevant fields are encouraged to apply.
Closing Date
No closing date has been specified. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Follow the official SPAR application process.

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