OUR VISION
OUR VISION
OUR MISSION
OUR MISSION
FMCG Skills Development Pipeline
A strong FMCG sector depends on a steady flow of skilled and motivated talent. We support this by helping companies invest strategically in education, training, and skills development — ensuring their teams remain productive, agile, and future-ready.
By upskilling employees and creating opportunities for unemployed learners, organisations contribute to a sustainable skills pipeline that benefits both their business and the broader economy. These efforts align with the National Skills Development Strategy (NSDS) and the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), reinforcing national goals of growth, transformation, and improved employability.
FMCG Training Academy plays a key role in this pipeline by offering:
- Accredited, industry-relevant qualifications
- Practical training designed for real retail environments
- Support with Workplace Skills Plans and SETA submissions
- Programmes for both employed and unemployed learners
- Learning pathways that build long-term career growth
Together, we help build a workforce that is skilled, confident, and ready to deliver excellence in every retail environment.
OUR OFFERING
Focused Training for The FMCG Industry
Retail and Wholesale Store Staff
Sales and Merchandising Agency Staff
Manufacturers’ In-house Sales and Merchandising Staff
School Leavers pursuing a Career Path in Retailing
Customised courses for the FMCG Industry
Career Path Progression
QCTO Accredited Wholesale & Retail Occupational Qualifications
Shelf Filler
Purpose of the Qualification
This qualification prepares a learner to function effectively as a Shelf Filler within a Retail or Wholesale environment. Learners gain a solid understanding of the basic principles of merchandising, including how to maintain product displays, ensure shelves are correctly stocked, and apply basic stock-counting principles to support accurate inventory management.
The programme equips learners with the practical skills needed to contribute to efficient store operations, improved customer experience, and effective product presentation.
Industry-Recognised Alternative Titles
- Merchandiser
- Store Assistant
- Retail Floor Assistant
Entry Requirements
To enroll in this qualification, learners must meet one of the following criteria:
- NQF Level 2 (Grade 10) with Mathematical Literacy and Communication
- A minimum of 3 years’ experience in a Wholesale or Retail store
Checkout Operator
Purpose of the Qualification
This qualification equips learners with the skills and knowledge required to operate effectively as a Checkout Operator or Cashier in Retail and Wholesale environments. Learners are trained to record and process payments, handle customer transactions accurately, and manage returns in line with store policies.
A qualified learner will be able to:
- Communicate professionally with customers
- Record sales accurately
- Process payments efficiently and securely
- Perform cash-up procedures and control change
These competencies ensure smooth point-of-sale operations and contribute to a positive customer experience.
Industry-Recognised Alternative Titles
- Teller
- Point of Sale Operator
- Cash Register Operator
- Till Operator
- Cashier
- Grocery Checkout Operator
Entry Requirements
Learners must meet the following minimum criteria:
NQF Level 2 (Grade 10) with Mathematical Literacy and Communication
Store Person
Purpose of the Qualification
This qualification prepares learners to operate effectively as Store Persons within Retail stores, Distribution Centres, or Warehouses. Learners gain the practical skills required to move, pack, pick, and maintain stock in storage areas, ensuring efficient stock flow and accurate inventory control.
The programme focuses on building competence in stock handling, workplace safety, and operational efficiency — all essential for smooth back-of-house operations.
Industry-Recognised Alternative Titles
- Picker
- Puller
- Stockroom Clerk
- Storeman
- Chiller Hand
- Manufacturing Store Person
- Order Picker
- Assembler
- Stores Assistant
- Warehouse Assistant
Entry Requirements
Learners must meet the following minimum criteria:
- NQF Level 2 (Grade 10) with Mathematical Literacy and Communication
General Perishables Goods Replenisher
Purpose of the Qualification
This qualification prepares learners to work confidently and safely in cold-chain environments within Retail and Wholesale stores. Learners are trained to pack shelves, fridges, and freezers, ensuring that perishable goods are displayed correctly, rotated efficiently, and maintained according to cold-chain standards.
The programme builds competence in:
- Merchandising principles specific to chilled and frozen products
- Maintaining product displays in cold spaces
- Stock rotation of perishables to minimise waste and ensure freshness
- Basic stock-counting principles
- Cold-chain characteristics and requirements, ensuring product integrity and food safety
This qualification equips learners with the practical skills needed to support high-quality perishables management and maintain compliance with cold-chain standards.
Industry-Recognised Alternative Titles
- Cold Chain Merchandiser
- Chiller Hand
- Cold Storage Stores Clerk
- Perishables Merchandiser
- Perishable Goods Packer
Entry Requirements
Learners must meet the following minimum criteria:
- NQF Level 2 (Grade 10) with Mathematical Literacy and Communication
General Perishables Goods Co-ordinator
Purpose of the Qualification
This qualification prepares learners to operate confidently and responsibly in environments that handle perishable goods. Learners gain a strong understanding of cold-chain compliance, ensuring that temperature-sensitive products are stored, displayed, and managed according to strict food-safety standards.
The programme equips learners to:
- Manage stock levels for perishable goods
- Rotate stock to maintain freshness and reduce waste
- Handle customer queries professionally and accurately
- Apply safety standards in line with company policies and cold-chain requirements
These skills enable learners to support efficient perishables operations and uphold product quality throughout the cold-chain process.
Industry-Recognised Alternative Titles
- Retail Co-ordinator
- Shop Co-ordinator
- Supermarket Assistant
- FMCG Controller
Entry Requirements
Learners must meet the following minimum criteria:
- NQF Level 2 (Grade 10) with Mathematical Literacy and Communication
Dispatch & Receiving Clerk
Purpose of the Qualification
This qualification prepares learners to operate effectively as Dispatch and Receiving Clerks within Retail, Wholesale, and Warehouse environments. Learners gain the skills required to record goods received, process goods dispatched, and maintain accurate stock records while minimising losses to the business.
The programme focuses on building competence in:
- Receiving and verifying incoming goods
- Preparing and dispatching outgoing stock
- Maintaining accurate stock documentation
- Applying loss-prevention practices
- Ensuring compliance with organisational procedures
These skills support efficient back-of-house operations and contribute to strong inventory control.
Industry-Recognised Alternative Titles
- Dispatch Clerk / Officer / Operator / Assistant / Worker
- Goods Dispatch Clerk
- Dispatching & Receiving Officer
- Inwards Goods Clerk
- Goods Receiving Clerk
- Receiving Clerk
- Shipping & Receiving Clerk
Entry Requirements
Learners must meet the following minimum criteria:
- NQF Level 2 (Grade 10) with Mathematical Literacy and Communication
Visual Merchandiser
Purpose of the Qualification
This qualification equips learners with the technical and creative skills required to enhance the visual appeal of a retail outlet. Effective visual merchandising plays a key role in shaping a store’s image, attracting customers, and influencing purchasing behaviour.
Learners are trained to plan, design, and implement merchandise displays that capture the interest of the target market and support increased sales. The programme focuses on both the artistic and practical aspects of display creation, ensuring learners can present products in a way that is visually engaging, brand-aligned, and commercially effective.
Industry-Recognised Alternative Titles
- Merchandiser
- Window Dresser
- Display Specialist
Entry Requirements
Learners must meet the following minimum criteria:
- NQF Level 2 (Grade 10) with Mathematical Literacy and Communication
Retail Sales Advisor
Purpose of the Qualification
This qualification prepares learners to operate effectively as Retail Sales Advisors across a wide range of retail environments. Learners are equipped with the skills to sell FMCG products, clothing, furniture, speciality merchandise, and other retail goods while delivering excellent customer service.
The programme introduces learners to the dynamic world of retail and FMCG sales, helping them understand customer needs, promote products confidently, and contribute to increased store performance.
Learners will develop competence in:
- Understanding product features and benefits
- Engaging and assisting customers professionally
- Promoting and selling goods and services
- Handling basic customer queries
- Supporting overall store operations
Industry-Recognised Alternative Titles
- Clothing Sales Assistant
- Cosmetic Sales Assistant
- Counterhand
- Hardware Sales Assistant
- Retail Assistant
- Sales Person / Sales Consultant
- Shop Assistant
- Supermarket Assistant / Worker
- Swimming Pool Salesperson
- Telephone Salesperson
- Sales Advisor
- Sales Attendant
- Sales Associate
Entry Requirements
Learners must meet the following minimum criteria:
- NQF Level 2 (Grade 10) with Mathematical Literacy and Communication
Retail Supervisor
Purpose of the Qualification
This occupational qualification provides learners with the core knowledge and practical skills required to function effectively as a Retail Supervisor. Supervisors play a critical role in ensuring smooth store operations by overseeing staff performance, maintaining service standards, and supporting both internal and external customers.
A qualified learner will be able to:
- Supervise retail or wholesale staff to ensure productivity and adherence to standards
- Monitor and improve team performance through guidance, coaching, and corrective action
- Oversee daily operations within a designated department or store area
- Supervise customer service delivery to internal and external customers
- Resolve customer complaints and queries professionally and efficiently
This qualification equips learners to lead teams confidently, maintain operational excellence, and contribute to a positive customer experience.
Industry-Recognised Alternative Titles
- Department Supervisor
- Checkout Supervisor
- Branch Supervisor
- Team Leader
Entry Requirements
Learners must meet the following minimum criteria:
NQF Level 4 (Grade 12) with Mathematical Literacy and Communication
Sales Representative
Purpose of the Qualification
This qualification prepares learners to operate effectively as Sales Representatives within the Wholesale and Retail sector. Learners develop the skills needed to build and maintain strong customer relationships, promote brands, and drive product sales in a competitive marketplace.
The programme equips learners to:
- Engage professionally with prospective and existing customers
- Implement brand promotions and sales strategies
- Present and demonstrate products confidently
- Manage customer service interactions
- Support sales growth through effective communication and relationship-building
These competencies enable learners to represent brands professionally, increase sales opportunities, and contribute to long-term customer loyalty.
Industry-Recognised Alternative Titles
- Product Demonstrator
- Sales Representative (Cosmetics, Skincare, Jewellery, etc.)
- Sales Consultant
- Field Sales Representative
Entry Requirements
Learners must meet one of the following minimum criteria:
- NQF Level 3, or
- At least 3 years of work experience in Sales within the Wholesale & Retail Industry
Small Retail Business Owner
Purpose of the Qualification
This qualification is designed for individuals who aspire to become Small Retail Business Owners. The programme equips learners with the essential knowledge and practical skills required to operate and manage a small retail enterprise effectively and sustainably.
Learners will develop competence in:
- Customer service excellence and building customer loyalty
- Marketing and selling products or services within a competitive retail environment
- Managing, controlling, and recording business financials
- Buying goods and managing stock levels to ensure profitability and availability
- Performing basic human resources functions, including staff supervision and compliance
- Applying relevant legislative and industry requirements to ensure lawful and ethical business operations
This qualification empowers learners to run a small retail business confidently, professionally, and in alignment with industry standards.
Industry-Recognised Alternative Titles
- Small Business Entrepreneur
- Small Business Owner
- Small Business Retailer / Wholesaler
- Shop Manager
Entry Requirements
Learners must meet the following minimum criteria:
- NQF Level 3 (Grade 11) with Mathematical Literacy and Communication
Retail Buyer
Purpose of the Qualification
This qualification equips learners with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to perform effectively as Retail Buyers within the Wholesale and Retail sector. Retail Buyers play a critical role in sourcing, purchasing, and allocating stock, ensuring that the right products reach the right stores at the right time.
The sector has identified the Buyer/Planner role as a national scarce skill, highlighting its importance in supporting business growth and operational efficiency. Buyers significantly influence an organisation’s ability to manage cash flow, optimise stock levels, and drive profitability through informed purchasing decisions.
A qualified learner will be able to:
- Manage supplier relationships and monitor stock performance
- Source products by identifying and selecting suitable suppliers
- Buy products in line with organisational needs and customer demand
- Allocate stock to stores to support sales and operational efficiency
Industry-Recognised Alternative Titles
- Department Buyer
- Retail Planner
- Retail Replenisher
- Procurement Officer / Planner
Entry Requirements
Learners must meet the following minimum criteria:
- NQF Level 4 Qualification with experience in business operations
Retail Chain Store Manager
Purpose of the Qualification
This qualification equips learners with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to perform effectively as Retail Chain Store Managers. These managers oversee the full operations of a branch within a retail chain, ensuring that staff, stock, service, and financial performance align with organisational objectives.
A qualified learner will be able to:
- Lead teams to achieve retail chain store operational objectives
- Manage and uphold service standards across the store
- Oversee and control stock to ensure availability and minimise losses
- Improve the financial performance of the retail chain store through effective planning and execution
The Wholesale and Retail sector has identified this role as a national scarce skill, highlighting its importance in driving operational excellence and business growth.
Industry-Recognised Alternative Titles
- Store Manager
- Retail Store Manager
- Floor Manager
Entry Requirements
Learners must meet the following minimum criteria:
- National Senior Certificate
Retail Store Manager
Purpose of the Qualification
This qualification prepares learners to manage the full range of functions required to operate a sustainable and successful retail establishment. Retail environments vary widely — from fuel stations and independent supermarkets to hardware, furniture, and clothing stores — and may be located in both urban and rural settings.
Retail Store Managers operate in an increasingly complex environment and must navigate a broad spectrum of responsibilities, including:
- Legislative and regulatory compliance
- Rising service and operational standards
- More assertive and informed customers
- Risks such as fraud, shrinkage, and theft
- Health and safety requirements
- Complex supply chains
- The ongoing challenges of managing people, processes, and financial sustainability
A Retail Store Manager may own the establishment or report directly to the owners or shareholders.
A qualified learner will be able to:
- Manage employees in a retail business
- Manage services, service standards, and stakeholder relationships
- Manage stock, supply chain, and logistics
- Manage marketing activities within the retail business
- Manage financial activities to support sustainability and growth
- Manage assets and control risks and losses
Industry-Recognised Alternative Titles
- Store Manager
- General Manager
- Store Head
Entry Requirements
Learners must meet the following minimum criteria:
- An NQF Level 4 qualification
Examples of Customised Skills Programmes
Skills Programmes are short, targeted learning interventions designed to address specific job functions within the Wholesale and Retail sector. These programmes provide focused, practical training that equips learners with the competencies needed to perform their roles effectively and confidently.
All Skills Programmes offered are approved by the Wholesale and Retail SETA, ensuring alignment with industry standards, national quality requirements, and workplace relevance. They can be tailored to meet the operational needs of employers, making them ideal for upskilling staff or supporting career progression within the sector.
Stock rotation
Count stock for a stocktake
Implement promotional instructions
