SA retailer calls on women-owned small businesses to join supply chain -

Local supermarket brand, Pick n Pay has put out a call for women-owned small businesses to join its supply chain and sell their products through its stores.

In recognition of Women’s Month in South Africa, Pick ‘n Pay is encouraging women entrepreneurs to apply and take part in its Enterprise and Supplier Development Programme (ESD). The programme aims to provide mentorship, guidance and business development support to small businesses entering the retail market.

Seyuba-Kombo, head of enterprise development at Pick ‘n Pay explains that the local retailer is committed to supporting women-led small businesses.

“Women-owned businesses are a really important part of our supply chain. They help us provide an excellent service and some of the best-loved products to happy customers.”

According to a 2020 survey by SME South Africa, 47% of all SMEs in the country are women-led businesses and are “more likely to succeed with assistance from a big business”.

In addition, Pick ‘n Pay will be hosting several talks with leading women in the SME sector and how they began their journey as entrepreneurs, with key insights and tips.

Enterprise and Supplier Development Programme (ESD)

Details on how to apply and the requirements can be found in this detailed document which is available for download here.

According to Pick ‘n Pay, suppliers are chosen for the EDS programme based on product demand and if the product fulfils an existing gap in the market.

There are several requirements to qualifying for the programme and it includes the following:

A company registration certificate
A business proposal of the product or service offered
A VAT registration number and a tax clearance certificate
Annual financial statements

The outcome of the programme aims to integrate the selected women-owned small businesses’ into the retail chain and be on offer to local consumers.

“We want to encourage more women to take that leap of faith and become entrepreneurs. Many of these businesses or services have the potential to succeed and help create jobs. It’s a real privilege to stand behind them and support them all the way,” concludes Seyuba-Kombo.