SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Retail Business Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
100768  Diploma in Retail Business Management 
ORIGINATOR
Cape Peninsula University of Technology 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 11 - Services  Wholesale and Retail 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0821/24  2021-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2033-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification replaces: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
78666  National Diploma: Retail Business Management  Level 6  NQF Level 06  360  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of the Diploma in Retail Business Management is to provide learners with theoretical knowledge and applied competences to develop into successful managers and practitioners in retail chain stores, retail franchise stores, retail buyers and planners and retail distribution centres. This qualification also aims to equip learners with a sound knowledge and skills base to be successful owners of retail businesses.

The qualification will prepare learners with retail and commercially-related conceptual and contextual knowledge, insight and practical skills to develop as managers for a retail enterprise. The knowledge and skills acquired in this qualification, together with the retail work experience, will enable learners to progress to managerial levels in the retail industry. Practical competences inculcate the application of the various work-integrated learning modalities to ensure the vocational focus.

Rationale:
There is a critical shortage of qualified managers in the retail industry. Retail Managers, retail buyers and retail Distribution Centre managers are the wholesale and retail seta and are critically scarce skills in the retail sector. This qualification focuses on the development of retail branch and store managers, DC managers, retail planners and buyer, trainee managers, shopping centre managers and learners could develop into a range of specialised jobs such as merchandise planners, layout specialist, regional managers, etc.

This qualification aims to provide learners with knowledge and skills in all areas of retail operations and management such as marketing, general management, logistics, buying, retail financial management, housekeeping to develop into successful managers and practitioners in these critical occupations. The retail industry employs approximately one million workers and is responsible for around 15% of the GDP of the country. There are more than 100 000 retail stores and distribution centres in the country of which a large number of managers employed in the sector do not have formal tertiary qualifications. This vocationally-oriented qualification responds to the national and regional needs for retail practitioners and professionals and serves as the basis for future professional development and academic advancement.

The qualification includes current knowledge, skills, attributes and dispositions to advance the objectives of the retail industry within the context of a growing economy. In developing this qualification, there was extensive consultation with stakeholders in the retail industry and discussions among the institutions of Technology. Inputs were given by Wholesale and Retail Regional Forum where most retailers are members. Inputs were received from the Wholesale and Retail Qualifications Body that represents leading retailers in the country. Consensus on the type, purpose, nature and the fundamental design of the qualification was reached among higher education institutions creating a consistent approach across SA for the national retailers in South Africa. Also, the retail management qualifications accredited by the Quality Council for Trade Occupations (QCTO) have been used as part of the national benchmarking exercise. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for this qualification means the process of identifying the knowledge and skills of a learner against the admission requirements of the qualification and for credits against a part thereof. The process involves the identification, mediation, assessment and acknowledgement of knowledge and skills obtained through informal, non-formal and formal learning. The RPL process is multi-dimensional and multi-contextual, aimed at the individual needs of learners and is handled following the institutional RPL policy.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement is:
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4.
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC), NQF Level 4 granting access to Diploma studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational (NC(V)), NQF Level 4 granting access to Diploma studies. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at 5 and 6, totalling 366 Credits:

    Compulsory Modules at NQF Level 5, 126 Credits.
  • Retail Operations Management 1, 30 Credits.
  • Retailing 1, 30 Credits.
  • Communication, 18 Credits.
  • Retail Financial Management 1, 24 Credits.
  • Business Computer Application, 24 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at NQF Level 6, 240 Credits.
  • Retail Operations Management 2, 30 Credits.
  • Retailing, 30 Credits.
  • Retail Financial Management 2, 24 Credits.
  • Retail Logistics, 18 Credits.
  • Business Law, 18 Credits.
  • Retail Operations Management 3, 30 Credits.
  • Retailing 3, 30 Credits.
  • Retail Integrated Projects, 24 Credits.
  • Retail Research Techniques, 18 Credits.
  • Industrial Relations and Labour Law, 18 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Undertake the general management of a retail business by innovative thinking and inter-functional problem-solving.
    2. Manage the marketing of a retail business using appropriate communication and research skills and strategies.
    3. Manage the stock, logistics and supply chain of a retail business following prevalent practices for ethics and corporate governance.
    4. Manage the human resources of a retail business attributing to the corporate values espoused by the industry.
    5. Manage the in-store production processes in a retail business, ensuring the appropriate quality and best productivity standards.
    6. Manage the finance and administration of a retail business by creating and using the appropriate information for decision making on profitability and sustainability.
    7. Manage and conducting basic research on relevant problems in a retail business. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Compile a workable business plan for the starting and operations of all the functions of an in-store and e-retail business that successfully responds to the needs of all relevant stakeholders.
  • Compile a feasible business plan for a shopping centre to achieve optimum utilisation of the space, consumer satisfaction and profitability.
  • Design an effective integrated basic strategic and functional tactical and operational management qualification for all the functions a retail business to ensure achievement of the objectives.
  • Develop effective housekeeping, asset and image management system for a retail business that will ensure customer satisfaction and a risk-free business environment.
  • Demonstrate an understanding and application of the principles of effective interpersonal and business communication in different forms on a professional level.
  • Compile an effective plan for good stakeholder relations.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the nature and application of leadership in a retail business.
  • Demonstrate the application of the concepts and principles of self-management.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the legal and statutory requirements relevant to a retail business.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Develop a basic strategic and functional tactical marketing qualification for an in-store and e-retail business to demonstrate knowledge of the marketing director of the business.
  • Correctly define the customer profiles of the target groups in terms of sound academic criteria to be used for the marketing strategy of a retail business.
  • Plan a market research project to ensure the provision of the right market information and the use of the correct research methods.
  • Correctly specify the nature, quantity, quality and time of products to be sold in a retail business.
  • Plan a comprehensive integrated tactical and operational marketing qualification for a retail business.
  • Correctly calculate the basic selling price of a product or service according to the price policy and strategy.
  • Correctly apply the processes for selling products successfully to customers who visit the retail store.
  • Develop an effective customer service strategy, policies, procedures and process.
  • Compile an effective E-marketing strategy in support of traditional marketing actions.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Develop an underlying strategic and functional tactical stock and logistics plan, which will demonstrate optimum functionality of the logistics function in a retail supply chain for an in-store and e-retail business.
  • Design an effective operational stock control system, including ordering, receiving, storing and dispatching of stock through warehouses, stock rooms and sales areas.
  • Compile a supplier sourcing and selection policy and procedure to ensure the right supply of prescribed products to the retail business at the required conditions.
  • Determine the most effective and cost-efficient way of transporting products from the supplier to the business and from business to the customer.
  • Correctly calculate the cost of products for gross profit determination on products purchased from national and international suppliers.
  • Compile relevant buying negotiation strategies for acquiring products at the best possible conditions for the retail business.
  • Compile workable strategies for the development of suppliers.
  • Demonstrate the efficient allocation and distribution of stock to branches in support of the marketing qualification.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Develop an appropriate basic strategic, functional tactical and operational human resources qualification addressing transformation and productivity in an in-store and e-retail work environment.
  • Design a functional organisational structure and job descriptions for the personnel in a retail business.
  • Correctly determine remuneration and working conditions for the positions in the retail business.
  • Effectively conduct the recruitment and selection of the best learner for a vacancy through professional HR practices.
  • Objectively evaluate the performance of the personnel through a performance appraisal system
  • Specify relevant employment contract conditions for appointed staff.
  • Correctly compile the induction and training needs of personnel towards full utilisation of potential and according to operational needs are identified, and workplace skills plan training plan that will sufficiently address the training needs of the retail business.
  • Develop a disciplinary policy, procedure and code to ensure fair and consistent behaviour by the employer in cases of misconduct by personnel.
  • Compile typical staff problems in the workplace that could impact on productivity are identified and plans to deal with the problems correctly.
  • Develop and where possible, apply appropriate and lawful industrial relations policies, procedure and actions including grievances, retrenchments, recognition agreements, strikes, lockouts.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Conduct an appropriate strategic plan for the production processes in a retail business.
  • Compile a relevant annual tactical plan with production schedules and budgets for the production process in a retail store.
  • Compile effective operational plans for the production processes in a retail store that will ensure required breakeven quantities, quality and productivity standards.
  • Solve operational production effectively and identify problems correctly.
  • Correctly apply scientific production planning techniques for decision making on scheduling and allocation of resources.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Apply a suitable financial system for an in-store and e-retail business that records all transactions and generates relevant financial reports is specified.
  • Accurately calculate the costing and break-even point for a retail business.
  • Accurately compile the relevant capital, income, expenses and cash budgets for a retail business.
  • Correctly calculate the financial implications of discounts and shrinkage on the gross profit margins.
  • Develop effective financial policies and procedure to deal with payments, cash handling, debtors, credit and stock for an in-store and e-retail business.
  • Correctly compile an effective asset management qualification for recording, maintenance, buying, renting of fixed assets of a retail business.
  • Demonstrate the correct use of computer software qualifications, including spreadsheets and word processing, to communicate and provide management information and to solve problems.
  • Design effective and relevant financial and administrative procedures for an in-store and e-retail business.
  • Compile a suitable investment plan and financing structure to secure long and short term capital for a retail business.
  • Develop an effective mail and communication system for the business.
  • Develop an effective record system for all relevant documentation of the business.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Identify and formulate researchable problems by managers in a retail business.
  • Correctly plan a necessary research process for an identified problem.
  • Sufficiently conduct relevant basic research on an identified research problem through focus groups, primary observation surveys and individual interviews.
  • Effectively communicate and present research outcomes on a research problem to relevant stakeholders.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The formative assessment of the qualification aims at enhancing learner learning and provides learners with an opportunity to reflect critically on their learning and to improve their levels of personal accountability and time management. The formative assessment consists of a variety of assessment tasks relevant to the field of study. In this qualification, it will consist of a variety of tasks such as problem-solving individual and group assignments and projects, case studies and class discussions.

    Summative assessment will take place at the end of a section of work/quarter or semester and aims at assessing learner's attainment against the learning outcomes of the qualification and subject(s). Summative assessments are internally and externally moderated based on institutional policy and requirements. The summative assessments for this qualification will consist of written assessments in the form of written tests portfolio development and assignments conducted during and at the end of the academic year.

    Integrated assessment often cuts across several subjects/modules of qualification and is aimed at the holistic development of learners and contributes to learner's personal and professional development in the field of study in terms of foundational, practical and reflexive competence. Integrated assessment in this qualification will take place at every level including at the third year of study and learners will be assessed holistically using project reports, a portfolio of evidence and an oral presentation related to the needs and requirements of the industry and field of study. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The situational analysis engaged various stakeholders that have a direct bearing on the qualification, such as employers, industry bodies and Advisory Committees. Benchmarking included drawing comparisons with qualifications, subjects and educational practices at similar institutions, nationally and internationally using particular curriculum components as points of reference.

    International benchmarking were conducted to determine the extent that qualification and subject structures compared with similar offerings at similar institutions. The international benchmarking exercise was conducted in terms of institutional requirements and guidelines which include the following: determining the scope of the benchmarking exercise; the selection of a variety of reputable HE institutions internationally (and nationally); the selection of comparable qualifications and aspects from these qualifications; analysis and evaluation of qualification design of the selected qualifications; conclusions and recommendations for curriculum renewal at the institution.

    The international benchmarking exercise included mainly the universities from the UK as these universities and the retail sector in the UK are generally known as the leaders in the retail field. The specific universities selected in the UK are mainly those with the same background and vocational approach. Other international universities were also analysed to ensure that all subjects and topics offered internationally are incorporated in this new Qualification.

    The following international universities were analysed:

    The University of Brighton- a former Polytechnic offers an undergraduate 2 and 3 year retail courses that offer learners opportunities to specialise in the marketing and management aspects of retail. Learners are equipped with transferable skills required across the retail sector, for example, fashion or food and drink. Learners have opportunities to develop their understanding of retail operational issues within the retail industry, merchandising, strategic marketing, retail trends and retail internationalisation.

    Surrey University (UK) in Guilford- also a former Polytechnic offers a Degree in Retail Management. Their qualification consists of compulsory and optional modules. At level 1 all the modules are compulsory to develop fundamental and retail-specific management skills and knowledge. A compulsory fundamental module such as Business Communication Skills looks at a wide range of communication channels at work and how people interact with other people and organisations effectively using modern technology. A retail-specific compulsory module, such as The Retail Industry, facilitates understanding of the fundamentals of retail activity.

    At level 2 and Level 3 there are a combination of compulsory modules based on fundamental management topics, such as Consumer Behaviour and Business Strategy, and retail management-specific topics such as Managing Retail Locations and Retail Buying. Learners can choose from a wide selection of optional modules based on a variety of management topics including marketing, entrepreneurship, finance and international trade.

    University of Stirling (Scotland) offers an undergraduate degree in Retail Marketing. In the first four semesters, it offers generic modules for Business and Management learners alongside learners from Marketing, Business Studies, Human Resource Management and Management Science.

    During semesters 5-8, it is a more advanced course with specific modules focused on Retailing and Marketing modules such as Retail Operations, Understanding Consumers, Marketing Research, Retail Supply Chains, Retail Buying, Human Resource Management, Locational Strategy, Brands and Branding, Marketing Strategy, Retail Dissertation.

    This benchmarking confirmed that the specific topics covered in their retail qualification modules are aligned with the topics covered in this new qualification.

    Some other international institutions were also analysed to ensure that all relevant retail topics are included. Some other institutions that offer similar or related qualifications in retail business management are:

    Dublin Institute of Technology (Ireland) offers a two year Higher Certificate in Retail Management and Marketing and a B.Sc. in Retail and Services Management (BSc).

    DHWB Ravensburg University (Germany) offers a Degree in Retail Management.

    The Open University of Australia offers Retail and Service Logistics and Retail Marketing as part of their Bachelor of Business.

    The contents identified during the international benchmarking were discussed and analysed with the all the universities in the country offering the Retail Business Management Qualification which is all members of the National Higher Education and Training Retail Qualifications Management Body. The majority of institutions agreed to use the same curriculum for this Qualification in Retail Business Management.

    Conclusion:
    Although the names of the qualifications differ from institution to institution, it was clear that there is an international need for retail training qualifications on higher educational levels. It was further evidence that planned contents and level of this qualification are comparable to many international institutions that are known for their excellent practice. The benchmarking indicated that these qualifications focus on developing an understanding of internationally accepted concepts, analytical approaches, problem-solving skills and practical and professional skills that will enhance the success of learners in the retail field. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification offers both possibilities of horizontal and vertical articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Cognate Diploma, NQF Level 6.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Retail Business Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Cognate Bachelor, NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced qualification.
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Cape Peninsula University of Technology 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.