With mobile units operating in low-income areas where recycling infrastructure is hard to come by, Packa-Ching incentivises communities to collect and recycle waste.

Recyclable packaging materials, including plastic, glass, cans and paper, are weighed and community members are paid instantly via a cashless eWallet system.

The funds can be used at any participating retailer or can be withdrawn or transferred to anyone in South Africa.

Packa-Ching launched its first mobile unit in August 2017 in Langa, Cape Town and has since expanded nationwide. The 15th Packa-Ching unit recently launched in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal. The initiative's unique model is entrepreneur-focused, and each team is owner-operated.

The programme provides an income-earning opportunity for community members and waste entrepreneurs.

"Newcastle is a job-scarce area, and we've seen our first unit's positive impact on our business and the community. As more people see value in recycling the demand has grown tremendously. People can earn a living, and with our new unit we've created five permanent jobs," says Phila Dlamini, co-owner of Mpilenhle Packa-Ching in Newcastle.

Servicing more than 80 communities and schools across South Africa, Packa-Ching has created more than 57 new jobs since its inception via the Shoprite Group's participation in the YES (Youth Employment Service) initiative.

YES is a collaborative effort between government, business and labour to combat high youth unemployment by providing job opportunities and skills development for young people.

Ndava says, "Shoprite got involved when we started the Packa-Ching Mobile buy-back centre; through their sponsorship and support we can pay the employees," adds John Ndava, project manager of Packa-Ching in Philippi, Cape Town.

Ndava adds, "We have created employment for them; they are able to take care of their families. The education involved helps enhance their personal development and prepares them for further opportunities within the waste and recycling industry."

"This initiative aligns with Shoprite's efforts to uplift lives every day through programmes that promote sustainable practices and reduce the impact on the environment while providing economic opportunity in vulnerable areas. This circular economy has a positive impact on the environment and communities, concludes Sanjeev Raghubir, sustainability manager of the Shoprite Group.

For more information, visit www.shopriteholdings.co.za. You can also follow the Shoprite Group on Twitter or on Instagram.