Making back to school easier

January marks a critical time for families across South Africa as children prepare to return to school. For decades, PEP has been the country’s go-to destination for affordable school essentials, championing access to quality education tools and uniforms. In December 2024, PEP, in partnership with FNB, took its commitment to affordability and accessibility to a new level with a groundbreaking campaign that made school shoes available for just 99 cents.

A bold solution for families
Understanding the financial burden faced by parents during back-to-school season, PEP and FNB created a promotion that would ease this pressure without compromising on quality. Customers who spent R170 or more, paid with an FNB card and scanned their PEP +more rewards card were eligible to purchase a pair of Student Prince synthetic school shoes, normally priced at R129.99, for just 99 cents.

Every detail of the campaign was crafted with purpose. PEP’s expertise in affordability and FNB’s insight into the financial pressures of the season came together to deliver a meaningful solution for families. Both brands share a deep understanding of the importance of starting the school year with dignity, ensuring children have access to the basics that enable them to learn and thrive. The collaboration between PEP and FNB was a key factor in the campaign’s success as it enabled the two brands to leverage their respective strengths and expertise to create a truly impactful initiative.

Delivering value at scale
With over 155 000 offers available, the campaign demonstrated PEP’s ability to deliver value on an unmatched scale. Backed by Pepkor’s extensive supply chain and national footprint, PEP ensured that stores across the country were well-stocked to meet demand. The initiative reflected a commitment to inclusivity, not just in the availability of shoes but in ensuring that no child is left behind because of financial hardship. A pair of school shoes became a powerful tool for restoring children’s confidence and dignity as they returned to their classrooms.

Supporting families, building communities
This campaign highlights the critical role businesses can play in strengthening communities. It reaffirms PEP’s leadership in back-to-school solutions and its dedication to ensuring that South African families have the resources to prepare their children for success.