Discover the Mr Price JumpStart Programme: Your Path to a Retail Career

Are you a young South African looking to kickstart a career in retail? The Mr Price JumpStart Programme, offered by the Mr Price Foundation, is a fantastic opportunity for unemployed youth to gain essential skills and work experience to become workplace-ready. This initiative is designed to empower matriculants and graduates with in-demand retail and manufacturing skills, helping bridge the gap between education and employment. Below, we’ll explore what the JumpStart Programme is, its benefits, and how you can apply for it in 2025.

What is the Mr Price JumpStart Programme?

The JumpStart Programme is a skills development initiative by the Mr Price Foundation, a non-profit organization established in 2005 to tackle youth unemployment in South Africa. With over 62% of South African youth aged 15–24 facing unemployment, JumpStart aims to equip participants with the tools they need to succeed in the retail and manufacturing sectors. The programme does not guarantee employment but significantly boosts employability by providing credible work-readiness experience that retail employers value.

JumpStart offers a variety of training programs, including:

• Retail Frontline Programme (RFP): A two-week course for matriculants, focusing on entry-level retail positions in stores, with a five-day online life skills course, in-person training, and one week of hands-on work experience.
• Retail Sales Programme (RSP): A high-energy two-week program for outgoing individuals passionate about customer service and retail sales.
• Retail Essentials Programme (REP): A six-month blended learning course combining theory and work experience for specialized retail roles like customer experience and merchandising.
• Warehousing Basics Programme: A two-week course preparing candidates for entry-level warehousing positions, including online life skills, in-person training, and hands-on experience.
• Production Programme: A six-month course focusing on critical manufacturing skills for industries like footwear, clothing, and textiles.
• Professional Retail Programme (PRP): An eight-month internship for tertiary graduates, offering specialized training in the retail value chain through classroom learning, self-study, group projects, and four months of work experience.

Each program begins with a five-day life skills course covering personal development, self-esteem, communication, conflict resolution, work ethic, time management, and job preparation, ensuring participants are equipped with both soft and hard skills.

Why Join the JumpStart Programme?

The JumpStart Programme offers numerous benefits for young South Africans:

• Skills Development: Gain sought-after retail and manufacturing skills, from customer service to merchandising and warehousing.
• Work Experience: Hands-on experience in real retail or warehouse environments, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.
• Increased Employability: Many graduates secure permanent positions with Mr Price Group or other leading retailers, with the 2024 Professional Retail Programme achieving over 70% employment for its interns.
• No Cost to Apply: The programme is free, and Mr Price Foundation warns against scams requesting payment for applications.
• Personal Growth: Build confidence, emotional intelligence, and a clear career vision through comprehensive life skills training.

Who Can Apply?

Eligibility varies by program, but general requirements include:

• Retail Frontline, Retail Sales, Warehousing Basics, and Production Programmes:
  • South African citizen, aged 18–33.
  • Matric certificate (at least one commerce subject for the Retail Essentials Programme).
  • Unemployed with no criminal record.
  • Access to a smartphone or computer and at least 200MB of data for the online application and life skills course.
• Professional Retail Programme:
  • Diploma or degree (or final-year student) in fields like B.Com, Operations Management, Retail Management, Fashion Design, or other retail-related qualifications.
  • South African citizen, aged 18–33, with no criminal record.

Note: JumpStart is demand-driven, meaning training is offered based on local needs. If no training is available in your area, you may not be able to complete your application.

How to Apply for the JumpStart Programme in 2025

The application process for the JumpStart Programme is straightforward and conducted online. Follow these steps to apply:

1. Visit the Official Website:
   • Go to www.mrpricefoundation.org and navigate to the “JumpStart” or “Careers” section.
2. Create an Account:
   • Register on the JumpStart website to access available programs. You’ll need a valid email address and phone number.
3. Choose Your Program:
   • Select the program that matches your interests and qualifications (e.g., Retail Frontline, Professional Retail, or Warehousing Basics). Note that you can only apply for one program.
4. Complete the Online Application:
   • Fill out the application form with your personal details, educational background, and any relevant information.
   • Upload required documents, such as your CV, matric certificate, academic transcripts (for PRP), and identification.
5. Take the Online Pre-Test:
   • Complete an online assessment to determine your suitability for the retail industry. You’ll need at least 200MB of data and a smartphone or computer.
6. Wait for Contact:
   • If training is available in your area, the Mr Price Foundation will contact you with further details. You may be invited for assessments and interviews if shortlisted.
7. Stay Informed:
   • Subscribe to the Mr Price Foundation newsletter for updates on program availability and application deadlines.
8. Beware of Scams:
   • The JumpStart Programme is free to apply for. Do not respond to requests for payment or share personal details with unverified sources. Always use the official website or contact Mr Price Foundation directly at [email protected] or 0800 212 535.

Application Deadlines:

• For the Retail Frontline Programme, applications are typically open from March to October (e.g., March 1 to October 15, 2025, for previous cycles). Check the official website for 2025 deadlines.
• The Professional Retail Programme is currently accepting applications for 2025, with no specified closing date as of July 2025. Apply early to secure your spot.
• Other programs like Retail Essentials, Warehousing Basics, and Production may have closed applications for 2025, but check the website for updates.
• APPLY HERE

Tips for a Successful Application

• Prepare Your Documents: Ensure your CV, matric certificate, and ID are ready in digital format for upload.
• Check Your Internet Access: Have a stable connection and sufficient data (at least 200MB) for the application and assessment.
• Apply Early: Spaces are limited, and programs are demand-driven, so don’t wait until the last minute.
• Tailor Your Application: Highlight any retail or customer service experience, even if informal, to stand out.
• Follow Up: If you don’t hear back, contact your regional coordinator (details provided in your candidate letter) or use the Mr Price Foundation’s contact form.

Success Stories

The JumpStart Programme has transformed lives across South Africa. In 2024, the Professional Retail Programme graduated 15 interns, with over 70% securing employment with Mr Price Group trading divisions. Graduates like Suhail and Ismail Rajah from Durban have leveraged their JumpStart training to build successful careers in retail. The programme’s focus on practical skills and mentorship has also helped participants like Martin John Steenkamp win prestigious awards, such as the 2023 DFF Fashion Innovation Award.

Final Thoughts

The Mr Price JumpStart Programme is more than just training—it’s a stepping stone to a brighter future in retail. By equipping you with life skills, industry knowledge, and hands-on experience, JumpStart empowers you to take control of your career. Whether you’re a matriculant dreaming of a retail job or a graduate aiming for specialized roles, this programme offers a pathway to success.

Ready to take the first step? Visit www.mrpricefoundation.org to apply for the 2025 JumpStart Programme today. Don’t miss this chance to unlock your potential and jumpstart your career!

For more information, contact Mr Price Foundation at [email protected] or 0800 212 535, or follow their official social media pages on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

Disclaimer: Always verify application details on the official Mr Price Foundation website, as deadlines and program availability may change. Beware of scams claiming to represent JumpStart or requesting payment.