Pick n Pay highlights Cape-based small businesses at festive Market Days

As the festive season approaches, Pick n Pay has taken bold steps to amplify the voices of small businesses in the region through successful Market Days held earlier this month.

On December 16 and December 19, shoppers were invited to engage with Cape Town's thriving small and medium enterprises (SMMEs), discovering innovative locally crafted products while directly connecting with their creators.

The first Market Day unfolded at the Pick n Pay Rondebosch Family store, featuring a diverse range of suppliers including Tempus Dynamics, Wonder Snacks, Lucky Pet, Joburger, Pura Bev, and AJ Products.

It was an exciting atmosphere where shoppers not only browsed but also interacted with the entrepreneurs, learning more about their products and the stories behind them.

Just a few days later, on December 19, the spotlight shifted to Pick n Pay Brackenfell Hyper, where a wider array of suppliers showcased their goods through eliciting tastings, engaging demonstrations, and enticing special offers.

Featured among them were popular names such as Source Queen, Umatie, French Confectionery, Euro Chocolates, HQ Foods, and Commessa, who took the opportunity to attract and educate shoppers through creative promotional strategies.

Images capturing these vibrant moments were shared, illustrating the enthusiasm of both vendors and shoppers alike.

Pick n Pay Market Days serve as an educational and interactive platform that not only assists small businesses in building their brand awareness but also allows them to test their offerings in a live retail environment.

This initiative forms a cornerstone of Pick n Pay’s ongoing commitment to nurturing SMMEs and promoting South African brands.

Mark Bandi, Pick n Pay's SMME Executive, emphasised the initiative's importance, stating, “This face-to-face engagement has already helped several suppliers secure listings in new areas and grow their businesses sustainably. It is one of the ways Pick n Pay demonstrates its commitment to driving shared growth and empowering communities.”

Bandi noted that suppliers are carefully selected based on criteria such as innovation, competitiveness, and community impact, with a clear focus on products that boast South African heritage and contribute to local job creation and upliftment.

Feedback post-Market Day has been overwhelmingly positive, with many suppliers observing a marked increase in product sales and heightened customer interest.

“We consistently see a noticeable increase in product sales and customer interest," Bandi added. "Many suppliers tell us their participation leads to broader regional listings and stronger brand affinity, as customers return to repurchase the products they discovered.”

Beyond the immediate benefits for participating businesses, this initiative reflects a broader ethos: when SMMEs thrive, so too do local economies, communities, and the consumers who support them.

BUSINESS REPORT