SAB and Henley Launch Retailer University to Strengthen Small Business Growth

SAB and Henley Launch Retailer University to Strengthen Small Business Growth. South African Breweries (SAB), in partnership with Henley Business School Africa, has launched the Retailer University, a flagship business development programme aimed at equipping local retailers with the skills, tools, and strategic insight needed to build sustainable and competitive enterprises.

The initiative underscores SAB’s commitment to strengthening South Africa’s small business ecosystem through enterprise development, job creation, and long-term capability building. Delivered over 12 months, the programme combines structured in-person learning with practical assignments and personalised guidance. The curriculum focuses on critical areas such as financial management, operational excellence, marketing strategy, and leadership development.

Henley Business School Africa, part of the University of Reading (UK), brings globally accredited expertise and a strong track record in executive education to the programme’s design and delivery. Participants will receive learning aligned to higher education standards, culminating in a recognised certificate upon successful completion.

SAB’s investment ensures that selected retailers can access this premium opportunity without financial barriers. The inaugural cohort includes 30 established retailers from across South Africa, each with more than a decade of operational experience and strong community impact.

“Retailers are the backbone of South Africa’s beer economy and vital anchors in the communities they serve,” said Zoleka Lisa, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at SAB. “Through Retailer University, SAB is investing directly in the people who power our industry – equipping them with the strategic capability and confidence to grow responsibly and build lasting value.”

Beyond technical training, participants will gain access to mentorship, peer networks, and structured accountability to ensure practical application and measurable results. Linda Buckley, Pro-Dean at Henley Business School Africa, added: “By equipping retailers with practical tools, strategic thinking and leadership confidence, we are supporting sustainable businesses that drive economic participation and long-term community impact.”

The first cohort commenced in February 2026, with sessions delivered at Henley’s Johannesburg campus. Retailer University reflects SAB’s continued leadership in building a stronger, more inclusive retail sector that contributes meaningfully to economic resilience and shared growth across South Africa.

SAB’s investment ensures that selected retailers can access this premium opportunity without financial barriers. The inaugural cohort includes 30 established retailers from across South Africa, each with more than a decade of operational experience and strong community impact.

“Retailers are the backbone of South Africa’s beer economy and vital anchors in the communities they serve,” said Zoleka Lisa, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at SAB. “Through Retailer University, SAB is investing directly in the people who power our industry – equipping them with the strategic capability and confidence to grow responsibly and build lasting value.”

Beyond technical training, participants will gain access to mentorship, peer networks, and structured accountability to ensure practical application and measurable results. Linda Buckley, Pro-Dean at Henley Business School Africa, added: “By equipping retailers with practical tools, strategic thinking and leadership confidence, we are supporting sustainable businesses that drive economic participation and long-term community impact.”

The first cohort commenced in February 2026, with sessions delivered at Henley’s Johannesburg campus. Retailer University reflects SAB’s continued leadership in building a stronger, more inclusive retail sector that contributes meaningfully to economic resilience and shared growth across South Africa.