Pick n Pay’s Smart Shopper has been named Best Retail Loyalty Programme of the Year in Africa at the 2026 African Loyalty Awards, recognising the programme’s growing role as a key driver of both customer value and business performance.

The awards recognise programmes that demonstrate sustained impact over time.

“This recognition reflects the scale, relevance and impact Smart Shopper has on South Africans every day,” says Bridget Dore, Head of Smart Shopper at Pick n Pay, commenting on the award.

“Smart Shopper has always been about supporting our customers in practical, meaningful ways – making it easier to save now and save later on every shop. It’s simple, trusted and focused on giving real value back. By combining instant savings at the till with points earned on every purchase, the programme helps customers benefit immediately while building rewards for later. At a time when every rand counts, Smart Shopper offers everyday relief, helping customers stretch their budgets a little further,” says Dore.

The strength of the programme is also reflected in its partnerships. BP and Pick n Pay jointly won Best Partnership Programme of the Year, highlighting the effectiveness of ecosystem-led loyalty strategies in modern retail.

Pick n Pay was the first grocery retailer in South Africa to introduce a national fuel rewards partnership with BP in 2018, and the model continues to evolve. The introduction of BP’s own rewards programme in 2024 has strengthened the ecosystem through a “Swipe-Swipe” mechanic, allowing customers to earn across both programmes in a single transaction.

Dore concludes, “Smart Shopper remains central to how we deliver value to our customers. The programme continues to strengthen because it consistently delivers tangible savings and rewards where it matters most.”

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