SPAR South Africa launches campaign benefitting school children

February 3, 2025 IN THE CATEGORY: Community, Responsible retailing

SPAR South Africa and shoe producer Bata team up for the ‘A start like no other’ campaign. This initiative addresses the issue of children in South Africa unable to afford the required shoes for school. As part of the campaign, 500,000 pairs of school shoes will be available for just ZAR70 to customers who spend ZAR350 or more in SPAR South Africa stores and use their SPAR Rewards card.

As part of a school uniform, the prescribed shoes are a cost to each family. This annual collaboration aims to make school shoes for children more affordable. The campaign makes the shoes more accessible and reflects SPAR South Africa’s commitment to making a real difference in their communities.

The impact of proper shoes

“Proper shoes don’t just make the walk to school easier – they instill a sense of pride and belonging, empowering children to participate confidently in classroom learning, sports, and social activities. Through this campaign, we’re giving South Africa’s pupils more than just shoes – we’re offering a renewed sense of dignity and opportunity,” said Mpudi Maubane, SPAR South Africa’s PR, Communications and Sponsorship Manager.

‘A start like no other’

The campaign was launched on 27 December 2024 and will run until 23 February 2025. Bata school shoes, available in varied sizes and are unisex, offer durability, comfort, and style. Participating SPAR South Africa stores can be identified by the ‘Give Them a Start Like No Other’ campaign posters.

“We understand that January, with all its back-to-school expenses, can be a challenging time for families. That’s why we’re committed to easing the financial burden while ensuring children have access to quality school shoes. Shoppers visiting SPAR stores to stock up on back-to-school essentials can at the same time take advantage of the Bata school shoes offer for just ZAR70. Parents who don’t need shoes for their children can pay it forward by purchasing shoes for a child in need, to give as many children as possible a start like no other. SPAR South Africa has already donated hundreds of pairs of shoes to children in need this season, and more will be donated throughout the campaign,” explained Mpudi Maubane.

Research from Stellenbosch University highlights the importance of well-fitted shoes. Children wearing improper footwear risk developing foot abnormalities and musculoskeletal problems later in life. Access to durable, well-fitting shoes supports their physical and emotional well-being.

“Every pair of shoes represents more than comfort and confidence – it carries the promise of better things. By offering affordable Bata school shoes, we hope to empower vulnerable children in the communities that we serve to step confidently into a brighter future,” Mpudi Maubane concluded.

Source: SPAR South Africa

Read more about SPAR South Africa.


About SPAR South Africa

SPAR South Africa was established in 1963. It operates four retail formats: SPAR neighbourhood supermarkets, SPAR Express forecourt stores, KWIKSPAR convenience focused stores and SUPERSPAR Supermarkets. SPAR South Africa grants sub-licences to independent retailers to operate stores under one of the four formats, with almost all the current store portfolio being independently owned.

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