Shoprite Tackles Hygiene Poverty by Offering Affordable Products

Shoprite has broadened its range of R5 items to incorporate vital hygiene products as part of its effort to tackle hygiene poverty affecting millions of South Africans.

The supermarket chain has unveiled 50ml sachets of 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner, in addition to a body wash, as part of its budget-friendly product range. These products are designed to be mixed with 150ml of water, allowing for up to 20 uses at an efficient cost of only 25 cents per wash.

As reported by the retailer, hygiene poverty—characterized by limited access to essential personal care and sanitation products—affects over 14 million South Africans. These new items follow Shoprite’s introduction of R5 sanitary pads in 2021, aimed at helping schoolgirls manage menstrual hygiene without disrupting their education. Notably, the price of these sanitary pads has remained consistent since their launch.

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“No one should have to choose between food and essential hygiene,” emphasized Renaldo Phillips, general manager for private label and imports at Shoprite Group. “Access to hygiene products is not a luxury; it’s a basic human right. This is why we are committed to providing the best products at the lowest possible prices.”

Upholding Community Dignity

With everyday essentials like soap and toothpaste still subject to standard VAT—unlike sanitary pads, which were zero-rated in 2019—Shoprite’s economical hygiene line strives to bridge the affordability gap during a period of rising living costs that are putting pressure on households.

“Shoprite aims to empower communities to preserve their dignity,” Phillips remarked. “With our R5 toiletries, we want to assist communities in maintaining their dignity.”

The retailer currently subsidizes over 1.8 million R5 products weekly throughout its stores.

In addition to these new toiletries, the R5 basket includes staples like brown bread, takeaway meals, and sanitary pads.

“For many, a R5 coin might not seem very valuable anymore, but it’s important to understand that it can still provide nourishment and now help maintain personal hygiene,” noted Phillips.

Read: Shoprite increases purchases from Black women suppliers

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