In celebration of International Women’s Day 2026, we highlight impactful initiatives implemented by SPAR country organisations that support the economic empowerment and safety of women, women’s health, and women’s sports.

Economic empowerment of women

Since March 2024, the UN Women Kosovo Office and SPAR Kosova have partnered on a “Use Your Potential: Come Work with Us” initiative to support the economic empowerment of middle-aged and older women returning to the workforce.

SPAR South Africa actively empowers female farmers by providing innovative programmes and resources that enable them to scale their businesses and lead sustainable agricultural change.

Maiora and DESPAR Nord, part of the DESPAR Italia consortium, received the national Gender Equality Certification (UNI/PdR 125:2022), recognising their commitment to equal opportunities, fair pay, and inclusive workplace policies.

Women’s safety, dignity, and rights

SPAR Austria has developed a dedicated campaign focused on gender-based violence against women. As part of this initiative, women’s helpline numbers are displayed on all receipts for 16 days each year.

SPAR South Africa is a member of the Private Sector Coalition Against Gender-Based Violence and Harassment (PSC), and supports charities focused on gender-based violence. SPAR South Africa has made a formal commitment to contribute to the elimination of period poverty nationwide by 2030, aligning its efforts with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Women’s health initiatives

SPAR and EUROSPAR Ireland raise breast cancer awareness through campaigns such as #BreastBeforeDates and broaden access to treatment by collaborating with the National Breast Cancer Research Institute. They utilise influencer engagement and instore tools to encourage women to conduct regular check-ups and self-examinations.

DESPAR Italia wholesaler Maiora, in partnership with Komen Italia, promotes the ‘Caravan of Prevention’ initiative to provide free breast cancer screenings and raise awareness among customers throughout central and southern Italy.

SPAR Slovenia has joined with the Europa Donna Slovenija Association to encourage women to undergo regular breast self-examinations, printing pink receipts with easy instructions and using the SPAR Plus app and store donations to encourage regular self-exams and support awareness.

Supporting women’s sports

The SPAR Women’s Challenge is one of South Africa’s largest and most iconic road races, having been held for 36 years. It brings together women of all ages, shapes, and fitness levels, having welcomed over a million participants since its inception. The 2026 edition of the race series features the uplifting theme #CelebrateHer and focuses on women’s strength, stories, and achievements, encouraging unity, inspiration, and empowerment. In addition, SPAR South Africa holds the SPAR Grand Prix Series and maintains partnerships across rugby and netball that promote inclusivity and equal opportunity.

SPAR Gran Canaria has renewed its long-standing partnership with the CD Femarguín women’s football team, reaffirming its commitment to advancing women’s sport, promoting equal opportunities, and supporting grassroots and local sporting talent.

Sources: SPAR South Africa, SPAR Austria, SPAR Gran Canaria, SPAR Kosova, SPAR Slovenia, Maiora Srl, BWG Group, DESPAR Nord