Pick n Pay has introduced a new scheme to eliminate the need for cash tips to car guards in South Africa, addressing a growing trend towards cashless transactions among shoppers.At Pick n Pay locations, customers can now purchase “appreciation vouchers” to provide as gratuities for car guards.
The vouchers come in R5, R10, and R20 values and can be redeemed in Pick n Pay stores for groceries.
“The vouchers can be purchased at till points at Pick n Pay stores nationwide and given to anyone as a token of appreciation,” Pick n Pay described.
This initiative is being rolled out across the country after a successful pilot at one of its stores in Cape Town.
The franchised shop initiated a pilot program selling R5 vouchers for tips, which Pick n Pay described as “a simple solution to a familiar dilemma.”
“While cashless payments are convenient for consumers, they can create challenges when people want to tip but no longer carry cash, and the recipient cannot accept digital payments, such as QR code payments,” the retailer said.
The trend towards digital payments is increasing in South Africa, with more businesses supporting cashless transactions.
A recent report from the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) indicated that 29% of the population exclusively prefer electronic payments.
This study further revealed that 31% of South Africans are comfortable with both digital and cash payments, while 19% rely solely on cash.
In response to the rise of customers opting for cashless transactions, Pick n Pay’s appreciation voucher system aims to fill a gap.
“Appreciation Vouchers give customers another way to say thank you when they don’t have cash on hand,” it stated.
“For customers who want to recognise the people who help them throughout the day, the voucher offers a practical alternative to cash – and another way to say thank you.”
The vouchers remain valid for three years from the date of issuance and can be redeemed at any Pick n Pay store, not just where they were bought.
“The vouchers are valid for three years and can be redeemed for groceries at any Pick n Pay store nationwide,” the group added.
It’s important to note that the vouchers cannot be converted into cash, and each must be fully used in one transaction.
“Each voucher must be redeemed in full in a single transaction, with the shopping basket value equal to or greater than the voucher amount,” Pick n Pay specified.
“No change is given, and vouchers cannot be exchanged for cash. Lost vouchers cannot be reprinted, so customers should keep them safe.”
