Coca-Cola Visual Merchandiser Learnership 2026: 12-Month Opportunity for Unemployed Youth Across South Africa
Young South Africans who want to build a career in sales, marketing, and retail merchandising now have an opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience through the Visual Merchandiser Learnership offered by Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa.
This 12-month learnership programme is designed for unemployed youth who want to develop practical commercial skills while working within the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry. Participants will gain both theoretical training and hands-on experience while supporting sales and merchandising activities in retail environments across the country.
The programme is ideal for individuals who enjoy working with customers, promoting brands, and learning how products are marketed and displayed in stores.
About the Organisation
Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA) is one of the largest bottlers of products for The Coca-Cola Company in the region. The company distributes a wide range of beverages across South Africa and plays a key role in the FMCG market.
With operations covering multiple provinces and cities, CCBSA works closely with retailers, distributors, and communities to ensure its products are widely available. The company is also committed to developing local talent through training initiatives such as learnerships, internships, and graduate development programmes.
These programmes are designed to equip young people with the skills and experience needed to succeed in the workplace.
About the Programme
The Visual Merchandiser Learnership is a structured 12-month training programme offered within the Commercial Sales and Marketing division of the company.
Participants will receive practical exposure to retail operations, merchandising strategies, and customer service while working alongside experienced sales teams. The programme combines classroom-based learning with on-the-job training to help learners understand how brands are presented and sold in retail environments.
Successful candidates will report to an Account Developer and will support merchandising activities in assigned geographical areas.
Programme Locations
The learnership is available across multiple locations in South Africa, including:
- Kuruman
- Upington
- Phuthaditjhaba
- Aliwal North
- Botshabelo
- Thaba Nchu
- Barberton
- Nelspruit
- Witbank
- Ermelo
The programme leads to a recognised qualification that requires a minimum of 120 credits.
Who Should Apply
This learnership is intended for young individuals who are passionate about sales, retail, and brand promotion. It is particularly suitable for candidates who want to gain their first work experience in the FMCG sector.
Applicants who enjoy interacting with customers, working in retail stores, and learning about merchandising strategies will benefit the most from this opportunity.
It is also ideal for individuals who want to build a long-term career in sales, marketing, or retail operations.
Requirements / Eligibility
To qualify for the Visual Merchandiser Learnership, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Grade 12 (Matric) qualification
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy with at least 40%
- Communication with English and one additional South African language (minimum 40%)
- South African citizenship
- Age between 18 and 35 years
- Must be unemployed at the time of application
- Not currently enrolled in another learnership, internship, or full-time study programme
- Must not have previously completed the same qualification or learnership
- Willing to work six days per week
- No criminal record or negative credit record
- Willing to undergo verification of ID, criminal record, and qualifications
Additional Advantages
The following will be considered beneficial but are not mandatory:
- A valid driver’s licence
- A post-matric qualification in Sales and Marketing
Employment equity considerations will apply in line with company policy and relevant legislation.
What Participants Will Gain
Participants in the learnership will receive both training and practical exposure that helps them develop important workplace skills.
Retail Merchandising Experience
Learners will gain practical knowledge of in-store merchandising and product placement. This includes understanding how to position products effectively to increase visibility and sales.
Customer Service and Sales Skills
Participants will learn how to interact with customers, understand shopper behaviour, and provide effective service within retail environments.
Commercial and Brand Execution Knowledge
The programme will teach learners how large brands maintain consistent product standards across retail stores and how merchandising strategies influence purchasing decisions.
Workplace Training and Mentorship
Learners will work closely with experienced sales professionals and Account Developers who will provide guidance, coaching, and performance feedback throughout the programme.
Duties During the Programme
Key responsibilities may include:
- Executing daily call schedules across assigned retail outlets
- Implementing visual merchandising standards according to brand guidelines
- Ensuring proper product placement, stock rotation, and freshness
- Maintaining product availability and visibility in stores
- Completing required reporting tasks such as the iRED survey
- Assisting customers with placing orders using the MyCCBA digital platform
- Supporting promotional campaigns and brand activities
- Providing operational support to sales teams when required
These tasks help learners understand how retail execution and sales operations function in the FMCG industry.
How to Apply
Applicants who meet the requirements must submit the following documents when applying:
- An updated and detailed CV
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- Certified copy of post-matric qualification (if applicable)
- Copy of a valid driver’s licence (if available)
Applications can be submitted through the official recruitment portal using the link below:
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee that applicants will be shortlisted. The selection process may include additional screening criteria.
Closing Date
Applications must be submitted before 31 March 2026.
Conclusion
The Coca-Cola Visual Merchandiser Learnership provides a valuable opportunity for unemployed youth to gain real workplace experience in the fast-moving consumer goods industry. Through structured training, mentorship, and hands-on exposure, learners will develop the skills required to work in sales, retail merchandising, and brand management.
For young individuals eager to enter the commercial sector and learn how global brands operate within retail environments, this programme can serve as an important stepping stone toward a long-term career.
