In November 2024, Boxer achieved a significant milestone when it listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), marking a new chapter in its remarkable journey.

With a market capitalization of R24.7 billion, Boxer’s entry onto the JSE not only reflects its financial success but also highlights its critical role in the South African retail market. While stock performance and financial results are important, Boxer’s true value extends far beyond numbers. Its greatest strength lies in its people.

Boxer’s most significant asset is its workforce: a growing, loyal team of over 33,000 employees. This figure is more than just a statistic; it reflects a deeply rooted, people-first philosophy that has guided the company’s growth. In a business world where many organisations focus solely on profits, Boxer’s commitment to investing in its employees is a driving force behind its long-term success.

The company’s “People-First” culture is evident across all levels. Boxer is dedicated to nurturing talent, whether it’s an entry-level position or a senior leadership role. Employees are encouraged to grow, develop, and take on new responsibilities, creating an environment where ambition and ability are rewarded.

One of Boxer’s core practices is promoting from within. This approach not only empowers employees but also fosters loyalty and a strong sense of belonging. Many team members have celebrated over 10 years of service, and a remarkable number have been recognised for 20 to 35 years of commitment to the company. This tradition of internal growth speaks volumes about Boxer’s belief that its greatest resource is its people.

Training and Upskilling: The Boxer Training Academy

The Boxer Training Academy is the beating heart of this philosophy. Founded in the early 2000s and accredited by W&R SETA, the Academy has been instrumental in shaping Boxer’s workforce and contributing to the growth of South Africa’s retail sector. Its mission is clear: to develop future leaders. Over the years, the Academy has trained more than 375,000 employees in skills ranging from cashier operations to management development.

Training programmes are varied and tailored to different career paths, including:

• Retail Operations (NQF Level 2)
• Retail Supervision (NQF Level 4)
• Retail Management (NQF Level 5)
• Retail Management Development Programme (RMDP) (NQF Levels 6 and 7)
• Graduate Programmes

The Academy also offers specialised training in butchery, meat processing, supply chain management, and leadership development. Many graduates of these programmes have gone on to secure promotions within the company, proving the Academy’s impact on career growth.

Stories That Inspire
The best way to understand Boxer’s commitment to its people is through the journeys of its employees. Take Nokuthula Mntambo, for example. She began her career at Boxer in 2006 as a casual till packer at Boxer Superstores Manguzi. Within a year, she trained as a cashier, became a permanent staff member, and then moved up to front end controller. By 2009, she was promoted to chief cashier and later became an admin clerk.

Nokuthula’s journey was far from easy. A single mother of two, she successfully raised her children while steadily advancing her career. She credits her faith and Boxer’s supportive environment for helping her balance family life with professional growth. Her dedication was rewarded in 2013 when she became the admin manager at the new Boxer Superstores Hlabisa. In 2015, she moved to Ladysmith Build, and by 2021 she had risen to Assistant Branch Manager. Today, she is enrolled in the RPL NQF4 training group, continuing her pursuit of excellence.

Another inspiring journey is that of Tembisa Mtikitiki, who joined Boxer in May 2014 as a till packer at Boxer Superstores Gqeberha. Within just a month she was transferred to the deli as a deli assistant, where her passion for food and customer service took root. Driven by curiosity and ambition, she soon became a deli cashier and set her sights on management. With the guidance and mentorship of her deli manager, she grew in confidence and ability, eventually stepping into the role of 2IC and later deli supervisor in 2017.

Her career continued to flourish. Today, Tembisa proudly serves as a Fresh Manager. Her story is a powerful reminder of how dedication, mentorship, and teamwork can transform passion into leadership.

Other success stories echo this theme. Joseph Ledwaba started as an unemployed NQF2 disabled learner in 2022 and, after completing his NQF4 learnership, became a Store Manager in just one year. Hlengiwe Qwabe, who joined as an NQF2 learner, was promoted to Admin Manager in 2022 and placed joint third at the W&RSETA GPA Awards. Similarly, Nomfundo Mhlangu progressed from unemployed learner to Admin Manager in KwaZulu-Natal.

There are hundreds of stories across Boxer, with one thing in common; they are an inspired journey fuelled by Boxer’s commitment to personal and professional growth for all employees.

Beyond the Job: Caring for the Boxer Family

At Boxer, employees are more than just staff members. They are part of a community. The company offers a wide range of benefits designed to support employees’ personal and professional well-being. These include educational support, wellness programmes, and numerous opportunities for career advancement.

Financial assistance programmes are also in place, such as bursaries for employees’ children, emergency assistance funds, and initiatives to help staff during times of hardship. Thousands of employees have benefited from these programmes, reinforcing Boxer’s commitment to caring for its people both inside and outside the workplace.

Looking Ahead

As Boxer continues to grow, its focus on people remains unchanged. The company aims to expand its training programmes, create more opportunities for career advancement, and maintain its leadership in people development within the retail sector. Every employee who grows within Boxer contributes not only to the company’s success but also to the upliftment of the communities it serves.

“At Boxer, we don’t just fill jobs; we shape futures. Every skill we build and every leader we grow is an investment in the communities we proudly serve,” says Group Executive HR, Ian Bamber.

For more information visit www.boxer.co.za.

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