The YES Learner (Merchandiser) Programme is a structured learnership initiative designed to support unemployed South African youth and is offered by Clover South Africa in partnership with the Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative. The programme aims to provide participants with practical, hands-on workplace experience over a twelve-month period, with a strong focus on skills development, employability enhancement, and exposure to the retail and sales execution environment. Successful applicants will be placed at various Clover branches across South Africa, allowing them to gain real-world experience within a leading fast-moving consumer goods organisation. A total of 112 YES Learner (Merchandiser) positions are available nationally, making this a significant opportunity for youth seeking entry into the retail sector. This initiative aligns closely with national youth development objectives and reflects Clover’s ongoing commitment to inclusive economic participation and sustainable skills development.
Key Programme Information
- Programme Type: Learnership / YES Programme
- Job Title: YES Learner (Merchandiser)
- Department: Sales Execution
- Industry: FMCG and Sales
- Job Category: Sales and Merchandising
- Duration: 12 months workplace experience
- Closing Date: 03 February 2026
- Reference Number: CLO260121-4
- Employment Status: Unemployed youth at the time of application
Location and Placement Details
- Positions are available across multiple locations nationwide.
- Learners may be placed in the following areas:
- Clayville
- CDC Cape Town
- Bloemfontein
- Port Elizabeth
- Queensburgh
- Additional Clover branches nationally
- Applicants must be willing to work in different retail and store environments.
- Work may include shifts, weekends, and public holidays depending on store requirements.
About Clover South Africa
- Clover is a leading South African fast-moving consumer goods company.
- The company operates across dairy, beverages, groceries, and related products.
- Clover is known for its strong distribution network and national footprint.
- Through its partnership with the YES initiative, Clover actively invests in youth empowerment.
- The organisation’s guiding principle is focused on sustainable growth and shared value creation.
- Clover promotes workplace learning, ethical conduct, and professional development.
Purpose of the YES Learner Merchandiser Programme
- To equip young people with practical sales and merchandising experience.
- To bridge the gap between academic qualifications and real-world work exposure.
- To develop foundational workplace competencies in a structured environment.
- To improve long-term employability prospects for unemployed youth.
- To introduce learners to professional retail operations and customer engagement.
- To support transformation and skills development within South Africa.
Minimum Educational Requirements
- Grade 12 qualification or equivalent National Qualification Framework Level 4.
- A recognised National Certificate is acceptable.
- Applicants must have completed secondary education.
- No tertiary qualification is required for this programme.
General Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Must be unemployed at the time of application.
- Must be able to commit to the full 12-month programme.
- Must be willing to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays.
- Must be physically able to perform merchandising duties.
- Must be able to work independently and as part of a team.
Language and Communication Requirements
- Business English proficiency is essential.
- Ability to communicate clearly with store staff, managers, and customers.
- Basic written communication skills for reporting and administration.
- Ability to follow instructions accurately and timeously.
Core Competencies and Skills Development
Personal and Professional Competencies
- Strong commitment and motivation to learn.
- Honest and consistent behaviour in the workplace.
- Willingness to take initiative and act proactively.
- Ability to adapt to different store environments.
- High level of reliability and accountability.
Interpersonal and Teamwork Skills
- Ability to collaborate effectively with others.
- Respectful interaction with store management and colleagues.
- Strong customer orientation and service mindset.
- Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships.
Organisational and Administrative Skills
- Ability to plan and organise daily tasks efficiently.
- Basic administrative capabilities.
- Attention to detail in stock control and shelf management.
- Ability to follow store plans and merchandising guidelines.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Stock Control and Inventory Management
- Control and manage stock in-store and in back-up areas.
- Apply correct stock control measures where Clover products are handled.
- Monitor stock levels to avoid out-of-stock situations.
- Report stock shortages promptly to the Area Manager.
- Minimise product returns through accurate stock handling.
- Record and manage returns according to store work plans.
Ordering and Product Availability
- Place accurate and timely product orders.
- Follow the prescribed ordering tempo and schedules.
- Ensure continuous product availability on shelves.
- Monitor sales trends to support effective stock replenishment.
- Support the overall supply chain flow at store level.
Shelf Management and Merchandising Standards
- Ensure products are clean, neat, and correctly displayed.
- Pack shelves according to the approved Store Flow.
- Apply basic merchandising rules consistently.
- Maintain shelf layouts as per provided planograms.
- Ensure price indicator labels are visible and accurate at all times.
- Maintain fridge displays where applicable.
Equipment and Asset Control
- Ensure proper control of crates and merchandising equipment.
- Follow company policies related to equipment usage.
- Maintain equipment cleanliness and proper storage.
- Report damaged or missing equipment when necessary.
Point of Sale and Promotional Execution
- Place point-of-sale material in allocated positions.
- Ensure promotional materials are maintained and visible.
- Support in-store marketing initiatives.
- Exploit opportunities to improve product visibility on shelves.
Administration and Reporting
- Maintain all relevant merchandising administration.
- Complete required reports accurately and on time.
- Follow internal processes and documentation standards.
- Communicate issues or challenges to the appropriate channels.
Relationship Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with store management.
- Work closely with Area Managers and Head Office teams.
- Maintain professional interaction with customers.
- Support fellow merchandisers and team members.
Workplace Learning and Development Benefits
- Practical exposure to real retail and sales environments.
- On-the-job learning under experienced supervisors.
- Development of transferable workplace skills.
- Improved understanding of FMCG operations.
- Enhanced communication, organisation, and customer service skills.
- Increased confidence and professional readiness.
Career Growth and Employability Advantages
- The programme strengthens CVs with recognised workplace experience.
- Learners gain exposure to national retail operations.
- Skills acquired are applicable across multiple industries.
- Participants improve employability in sales, merchandising, and retail roles.
- Experience gained supports future entry-level job opportunities.
Commitment to Youth Employment and Transformation
- The programme supports national youth employment objectives.
- Focuses on empowering unemployed youth with practical experience.
- Encourages inclusive participation across provinces.
- Contributes to long-term economic and skills development.
- Aligns with transformation and sustainability goals.
Application Readiness Tips
- Ensure all personal information is accurate and up to date.
- Prepare a clear and professional curriculum vitae.
- Be ready to commit fully to the 12-month programme.
- Demonstrate willingness to learn and work in a retail environment.
- Be open to working flexible hours as required.
Summary of the YES Learner Merchandiser Programme
- A 12-month structured workplace experience opportunity.
- Designed for unemployed South African youth with Grade 12.
- Offers hands-on exposure to merchandising and sales execution.
- Available across multiple locations nationally.
- Focused on skills development, employability, and career readiness.
- Backed by Clover’s strong industry presence and YES partnership.
Final Note
The YES Learner (Merchandiser) Programme represents a valuable entry point into the retail and FMCG sector for young South Africans. By combining practical workplace exposure with structured learning, this initiative plays a crucial role in developing future-ready talent while addressing youth unemployment in South Africa.
