Major shake-up as Shoprite secures Standard Bank UCount rewards partnership

After FNB’s abrupt dismissal of its partnership with Shoprite in favour of a glamorous new team-up with Pick n Pay, the retail brand has sought a new partner for discounts while shopping at its own and Checkers stores: Standard Bank. More specifically, the local bank’s UCount Rewards, adding to its ongoing collaboration with Discovery.

In what feels like a dig at FNB, Shoprite’s announcement reads: “Africa’s biggest bank and Africa’s biggest retailer have teamed up to offer customers Africa’s biggest grocery rewards. This comes as the Shoprite Group doubles down on transparent partnerships that offer shoppers real value. ”

Shoprite strikes back

Starting in April 2025 (when FNB’s partnership comes to a halt), qualifying UCount rewards members who shop at any Shoprite or Checkers grocery store will receive “up to” 30% cash-back on UCount rewards points when shopping in-store. Those who use the Checkers Sixty60 app, however, will unlock 40% cash-back.

This goes for “every product, every day.” It should be noted that these changes will not interfere with customers’ Xtra Savings cards and subsequent rewards.

The partnership struck with Standard Bank feels targeted at its former partner’s newly announced eBucks rewards scheme with Pick n Pay. Where FNB customers will be treated to similar cash-back schemes – like 20% cash-back in-store and 30% online – Shoprite’s deals are designed to beat out the competition by a close margin.