The PepsiCo South Africa Sales Learnership Programme 2026 offers graduates an opportunity to gain practical workplace experience while earning a monthly stipend of R6,000. Based in Tzaneen, Limpopo, this 12-month programme combines structured learning with hands-on training in sales, customer service, marketing, and business operations.
Designed for graduates who want to launch a career in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, the programme provides valuable industry exposure while helping participants develop professional skills that are highly sought after by employers.
Applications close on 19 June 2026, and successful candidates will begin the programme on 1 August 2026.
Programme Overview
| Programme Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | PepsiCo South Africa Sales Learnership Programme 2026 |
| Company | PepsiCo South Africa |
| Industry | Food and Beverage Manufacturing |
| Location | Tzaneen, Limpopo |
| Programme Duration | 12 Months |
| Employment Type | Fixed-Term Learnership |
| Monthly Stipend | R6,000 |
| Closing Date | 19 June 2026 |
| Start Date | 1 August 2026 |
| Minimum Qualification | Diploma or Degree in Sales, Marketing, or Business Management |
| Driver’s Licence | Valid Code 10 Required |
About PepsiCo South Africa
PepsiCo is one of the world’s leading food and beverage companies, operating across more than 200 countries and territories. In South Africa, the company has built a strong presence through its portfolio of popular snack, beverage, and food brands.
As part of its commitment to youth development and skills creation, PepsiCo invests in programmes that provide graduates with practical workplace experience, helping them transition successfully from education into employment.
The Sales Learnership Programme forms part of this commitment by preparing participants for careers in sales and customer engagement.
What Is the Sales Learnership Programme?
The programme combines classroom learning with practical workplace experience, giving participants the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real business environments.
Throughout the 12 months, learners will receive:
- Structured theoretical training
- Practical field sales experience
- Coaching and mentorship
- Customer engagement opportunities
- Workplace exposure within PepsiCo operations
This balanced approach helps participants develop both technical and interpersonal skills needed for successful careers in sales.
What Participants Will Learn
Sales and Negotiation Skills
Learners will develop practical abilities to:
- Identify customer needs
- Present products effectively
- Negotiate professionally
- Build long-term customer relationships
- Achieve sales objectives
These competencies are fundamental for success in any sales environment.
Marketing and Brand Development
The programme introduces participants to:
- Brand positioning
- Product promotion strategies
- Consumer behaviour
- Marketing principles
- Market research and analysis
Understanding how brands connect with customers provides valuable insight into the FMCG industry.
Customer Service Excellence
Participants will learn how to:
- Deliver outstanding customer experiences
- Resolve customer concerns professionally
- Build customer loyalty
- Maintain positive business relationships
Strong customer service skills remain essential across many industries.
Teamwork and Collaboration
The learnership encourages participants to:
- Work effectively within sales teams
- Support organisational objectives
- Collaborate with supervisors and colleagues
- Contribute to overall business performance
Compliance and Professional Conduct
Learners will also gain knowledge of:
- Ethical business practices
- Sales compliance requirements
- Company policies
- Industry regulations
Professional conduct is a key expectation within PepsiCo’s workplace culture.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria.
Educational Qualifications
Candidates must hold one of the following:
Fresh listings:
- Diploma in Sales
- Diploma in Marketing
- Diploma in Business Management
- Degree in Sales
- Degree in Marketing
- Degree in Business Management
Relevant qualifications from accredited institutions are required.
Driving Requirements
Applicants must:
- Hold a valid Code 10 driver’s licence
- Be confident and competent drivers
- Be able to safely operate a Crafter heavy-duty commercial vehicle
- Be willing to complete defensive driver training
- Successfully pass the defensive driving assessment
Driving forms an important part of the practical sales role.
Additional Requirements
Applicants should:
- Be willing to work in field sales environments
- Be available for the full 12-month programme
- Be available to start on 1 August 2026
- Be criminal-clear
- Be credit-clear
Meeting these requirements is essential for consideration.
Typical Duties During the Learnership
Successful participants may assist with:
- Visiting customers
- Promoting PepsiCo products
- Supporting sales campaigns
- Building customer relationships
- Conducting merchandising activities
- Monitoring market conditions
- Recording sales information
- Assisting with customer enquiries
- Supporting brand development initiatives
These responsibilities provide valuable real-world sales experience.
Monthly Stipend
Participants will receive a monthly stipend of R6,000 throughout the programme.
The stipend is intended to assist with expenses such as:
- Transport
- Meals
- Communication costs
- Daily living expenses
While the financial support is valuable, the workplace experience gained during the programme offers long-term career benefits.
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified qualification certificates
- Academic transcripts (where available)
- Valid Code 10 driver’s licence
- Proof of residence if requested
Having complete documentation ready can help streamline the application process.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for graduates who:
- Hold qualifications in Sales, Marketing, or Business Management
- Want practical workplace experience
- Are interested in FMCG sales careers
- Enjoy working with customers
- Have strong communication skills
- Are willing to work in field-based environments
- Want to build a long-term career with a global organisation
Motivated candidates who are eager to learn will benefit most from the programme.
Tips to Improve Your Application
To increase your chances of selection:
Update Your CV
Ensure it includes:
- Educational qualifications
- Relevant projects
- Customer service or sales experience
- Leadership activities
- Accurate contact information
Highlight Communication Skills
Sales roles require excellent interpersonal abilities, so showcase experiences that demonstrate communication and teamwork.
Be Honest About Driving Experience
Since a Code 10 licence is mandatory, accurately reflect your driving experience and qualifications.
Prepare for Assessments
You may be evaluated on:
- Communication
- Problem-solving
- Professional behaviour
- Driving capability
- Customer interaction
Preparation can improve confidence during the selection process.
Application Deadline
Applications for the PepsiCo South Africa Sales Learnership Programme 2026 close on 19 June 2026.
Interested candidates should submit their applications as early as possible to avoid missing the deadline.
Career Benefits After Completion
Completing the programme can provide:
- Practical FMCG sales experience
- Customer relationship management skills
- Marketing knowledge
- Negotiation abilities
- Professional workplace exposure
- Enhanced employability
- A stronger CV for future opportunities
Many employers value candidates who have completed structured workplace learning programmes with recognised organisations.
How to Apply
Apply for PepsiCo Sales Learnership Programme 2026
Final Thoughts
The PepsiCo Sales Learnership Programme 2026 presents an outstanding opportunity for graduates who want to enter the sales and marketing industry while earning a monthly stipend of R6,000. Through a combination of formal learning, practical field experience, and mentorship, participants can build valuable skills that support long-term career growth.
If you meet the qualification and driving requirements and are ready to develop your career in one of the world’s leading food and beverage companies, ensure your application is submitted before 19 June 2026.