THE increasing prominence of private labels at SPAR South Africa in a highly competitive market is underscored by the organisation’s strong performance at the 2025 SA Diary Championships that took place on 08 April 2025. SPAR secured a prestigious Qualité Award for the SPAR Double Cream Plain Yoghurt.
SPAR also won first place awards for their Fat Free Plain Yoghurt, Double Cream Plain Yoghurt, Low Fat Smooth Plain Cottage Cheese and Fat Free Smooth Plain Cottage Cheese. In addition to this, SPAR collected a further 10 podium finishes.
Competing against more than 1 000 entries from manufacturers and retailers nationwide, SPAR highlights that the SA Dairy Championships – established in 1834 and now hosted by Agri-Expo – showcases the evolution of the dairy industry and the growing influence of private labels, 192 years later.
“Once seen as a budget alternative to leading brands, in-house private label brands have now earned their place alongside top-tier dairy brands”, says Judith Gale, head of marketing for private labels at SPAR. The SPAR private label products exemplify this shift, demonstrating that private labels can compete on equal footing with long-established national and international brands.
With many South Africans facing financial pressures, private label brands provide quality options at accessible prices.
“Our products deliver exceptional value, offering quality that matches the best at a more affordable price,” says Gale. SPAR shoppers benefit from competitive pricing, and a wider range of choices tailored to evolving consumer needs.”
Quality is paramount, stresses Gale, with SPAR suppliers being selected on their ability to meet the exacting environmental and social sustainability standards integral to SPAR’s corporate principles.
“Our network of suppliers shares our commitment to producing premium dairy products in a responsible manner. Ethical sourcing and agricultural operations prioritise reducing waste, utilising renewable energy, and animal welfare. Social well-being through fair labour practices and support for local communities is encouraged, as they are vital components of the SPAR values.”
“We take immense pride in our private label brands,” says Gale.
“Our participation in the 2025 championships reaffirms our commitment to delivering high-quality products that our customers can trust to be among the best in the market.”
