As the 2025 back to school season approaches, South African parents and students are preparing for the back-to-school season. A significant part of this preparation involves purchasing stationery. To assist in making cost-effective choices, we have compared prices of essential stationery items across three major retailers: Pick n Pay, Checkers, and Shoprite.
2025 Back to School Stationery Price Comparison
1. Writing Instruments
- Staedtler Traditional HB Pencils (3-pack):
- Pick n Pay: R19.99 (Back-to-School promotion) / R43.99 (regular price)
- Checkers: R37.99 / R16.99 (Checkers rewards customers)
- Shoprite: R37.99 / R16.99 (Shoprite rewards customers)
- BIC Orange Ballpoint Pens (2-pack):
- Pick n Pay: R21.00
- Checkers: R18.99 / R15.99 (Checkers rewards customers)
- Shoprite: R18.99 / R15.99 (Shoprite rewards customers)
2. Paper Products
- A4 Hardcover Notebook (192 pages):
- Pick n Pay: R19.99 (Back-to-School promotion) / R21.99 (regular price)
- Checkers: R21.99 / R12.99 (Checkers rewards customers)
- Shoprite: R21.99 / R12.99 (Shoprite rewards customers)
- A4 White Paper (500 sheets):
- Pick n Pay (Mondi): R84.99
- Checkers (Typek): R82.99 / R69.99 (Checkers rewards customers)
- Shoprite (Typek): R82.99 / R69.99 (Shoprite rewards customers)
3. Adhesives and Correction
- Pritt Glue Stick (43g):
- Pick n Pay: R41.99 (Back-to-School promotion) / R59.99 (regular price)
- Checkers: R49.99 / R34.99 (Checkers rewards customers)
- Shoprite: R49.99 / R34.99 (Shoprite rewards customers)
4. Coloring Supplies
- Monami Retractable Wax Crayons (12-pack):
- Pick n Pay: R44.99 / R99.99 (regular price)
- Checkers: R79.99 / R44.99 (Checkers rewards customers)
- Shoprite: R79.99 / R44.99 (Shoprite rewards customers)
5. Organizational Tools
- Flip File Display Book (A4, 20-pocket):
- Pick n Pay: R21.99
- Checkers: R26.99 / R18.99 (Checkers rewards customers)
- Shoprite: R26.99 / R18.99 (Shoprite rewards customers)
6. Additional Essentials
- 30cm Shatterproof Ruler:
- Checkers: R12.99
- Shoprite: R12.99
- Small Pair of Scissors:
- Checkers: R17.99
- Shoprite: R17.99
Total Basket Comparison
To provide a comprehensive comparison, we have calculated the total cost of a typical back to school basket of these essential items at each retailer:
- Pick n Pay: R254.94 (Back-to-School promotion prices)
- Checkers: R318.93 / R214.93 (Checkers rewards customers)
- Shoprite: R318.93 / R214.93 (Shoprite rewards customers)
Analysis
- Pick n Pay: Offers competitive Back-to-School promotions, making it a cost-effective option for shoppers without loyalty programs.
- Checkers and Shoprite: Both retailers provide significant discounts for their rewards program members, resulting in the lowest total basket prices among the three.
Recommendations for Shoppers during the Back to School Season
- Enroll in Rewards Programs: To maximize savings at Checkers and Shoprite, consider joining their respective rewards programs.
- Compare Promotions: Review current promotions and discounts at each retailer, as prices and offers may vary.
- Plan Ahead: Create a shopping list based on your child’s specific needs to avoid unnecessary purchases.
- Shop Early: Early shopping can help secure the best deals before items sell out.
By carefully comparing prices and taking advantage of promotions and rewards programs, parents and students can make informed decisions and save on essential back-to-school stationery for the 2025 academic year
Also read: PEP and FNB Offer School Shoes for Just 99c in Back to School Deal!
