December 2026 PEP Stores Seasonal Opportunities: No Experience Required in South Africa

PEP Stores is hiring seasonal workers for December 2026 across South Africa. No experience required. Learn about roles, pay, hours, requirements, and how to apply.

As the festive season approaches, PEP Stores prepares for one of its busiest trading periods of the year. December shopping brings higher foot traffic, longer store hours, and increased stock volumes across thousands of PEP outlets nationwide. To manage this demand, the retailer hires seasonal part-time workers, many of whom do not need any previous work experience.

The December 2026 PEP Stores seasonal opportunities are ideal for students, school leavers, and job seekers looking for short-term income and an entry point into retail employment. With stores located in cities, townships, and rural areas, PEP remains one of the most accessible employers in South Africa during the holiday season.

Why PEP Stores Hire Seasonal Staff Every December

December is peak retail season in South Africa. Families shop for clothing, gifts, school essentials, and festive basics, leading to a sharp increase in daily customer volumes.

To keep stores running smoothly, PEP responds by increasing staffing levels, extending operating hours, and boosting stock deliveries and promotions. This creates temporary job opportunities from November through early January, with December being the most active hiring period.

PEP Stores and Entry-Level Employment

PEP is one of South Africa’s largest value retailers, operating more than 2,000 stores nationwide. The company has a long-standing reputation for employing first-time job seekers, particularly young people entering the workforce.

For seasonal roles, no formal work experience is required. Training is provided on the job, and selection is largely based on availability, attitude, and reliability. Many employees who begin as seasonal workers are later considered for future seasonal contracts or permanent positions when vacancies arise.

Typical PEP Stores Seasonal Job Roles

Seasonal positions are focused on supporting daily store operations during periods of high customer demand.

Customer Service and Floor Assistants

These roles involve helping customers and keeping the store neat and organised throughout the day.

Common duties include assisting customers with product queries and sizes, replenishing shelves and clothing racks, maintaining clean and presentable aisles, and supporting in-store promotions. This role suits applicants who are friendly, energetic, and comfortable interacting with people.

Stock Handling and Receiving Assistants

Stock volumes increase significantly before Christmas, and seasonal staff play an important role in managing deliveries.

Responsibilities may include unpacking and sorting merchandise, moving stock from storerooms to the sales floor, ensuring items are correctly labelled and stored, and assisting with basic inventory checks. This role is more physical and suits applicants who enjoy hands-on work.

Till and Checkout Support

During peak shopping hours, seasonal staff may assist at the tills.

Tasks often include packing customers’ purchases, managing queues, directing customers, and assisting with basic till procedures under supervision. Full cashier training may be offered to selected seasonal workers.

Pay, Working Hours, and Contracts

PEP seasonal workers are usually paid on an hourly basis in line with South Africa’s retail sector minimum wage.

Shifts are flexible and often include weekends and public holidays. Daily shifts are typically shorter, ranging from four to six hours. Contracts are fixed-term or casual, with payment made via bank transfer. Employees who show reliability and commitment may be offered additional shifts during peak trading days.

How to Apply for PEP Stores Seasonal Jobs December 2026

Applications are usually submitted through the official PEP Stores careers platform. In some areas, stores may also accept enquiries in person during quieter hours, or post notices on local community boards.

PEP Stores official careers website

Applicants are advised to apply directly through official channels and avoid third-party websites that claim guaranteed placement.

Creating a CV When You Have No Experience

If this is your first job application, your CV should focus on your skills and personal qualities rather than formal work history.

Include your personal details and contact information, education history, and skills such as communication, teamwork, honesty, and reliability. You can also mention volunteering, school projects, or community activities.

Keep your CV one page long, simple to read, and free of spelling or grammar errors.

Interview Tips for PEP Seasonal Roles

Interviews for seasonal positions are usually informal and brief.

PEP looks for a positive attitude, willingness to learn, availability during December, and punctuality with a neat appearance. Be prepared to explain why you want to work at PEP, your availability during the festive season, and how you cope in busy or stressful environments.

Documents You Will Need

Before starting work, successful applicants are required to provide a certified copy of a South African ID or valid work permit, bank account details, a SARS tax number if applicable, and proof of address. Having these documents ready can speed up the hiring process.

Availability Matters Most

December retail work requires commitment, especially over weekends, public holidays, and peak shopping days before Christmas. Applicants who are fully available during this period are prioritised.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need experience to work at PEP Stores in December 2026?
No. Most seasonal roles are designed for first-time workers, and training is provided.

Are these jobs only for students?
No. Anyone who is legally allowed to work in South Africa can apply.

How long do seasonal contracts last?
Most contracts run from late November or early December until early January.

Can a seasonal job lead to permanent employment?
In some cases, strong performance can lead to future seasonal or permanent opportunities.

Conclusion

The December 2026 PEP Stores seasonal opportunities offer one of the easiest entry points into retail employment in South Africa. With no experience required, nationwide availability, and flexible shifts, these roles are well suited to anyone looking for holiday income and practical work experience.

Applying early, being fully available during the festive season, and presenting yourself professionally can significantly improve your chances. For many South Africans, a PEP seasonal job is more than just holiday work—it is often the first step into the world of employment.