PepsiCo South Africa opens the doors of its SASKO Shakaskraal Bakery, showcasing the passion, purpose, and innovation behind every loaf.
In a powerful move toward transparency and purpose-driven storytelling, PepsiCo South Africa welcomed select media into its SASKO Shakaskraal Bakery today, offering a rare, behind-the-scenes look at one of the country’s most important food production hubs. The tour formed part of PepsiCo South Africa’s broader effort to reshape the narrative around how food reaches South African homes – shifting the spotlight from factory floors to the people, passion, and purpose behind every loaf.
“This isn’t just a tour of a bakery,” said Cornel Vermeulen, GM of Bakeries at PepsiCo SA. “It’s a window into the heart of our food system, where operational excellence meets deep community care. Our SASKO brand is built on trust, and trust is built on visibility, consistency, and care. Our teams here at Shakaskraal Bakery are not just producing bread, they’re delivering dignity, nourishment, and national pride. From food safety and sustainability to youth development, this bakery is a working example of how PepsiCo South Africa is leading with purpose.”
More than a brand – a daily staple
SASKO, one of South Africa’s most beloved brands, bakes bread in 13 bakeries across the country, supported by a fleet of 1,300 vehicles that travel over 4 million kilometres a month to ensure access to fresh bread in local communities. The Shakaskraal site alone contributes to a national output of 600 million loaves annually.
The visit gave media a first-hand view of:
- Tech-forward manufacturing lines committed to consistency, quality, and safety
- The frontline teams who live the brand promise that “People who care make things better”
- World class food quality and safety processes
- How we’re investing in the future growth of our people through The “Bakery Technical Academy”, a pipeline for technical training and future-fit skills
Purpose in every slice
The tour also highlighted the work of SASKO’s Siyasizana initiative and its flagship “Play Better” campaign – underscoring the brand’s commitment to enabling access to safe, quality play spaces for children across South Africa.
With a goal of reaching 1,000 school playgrounds by the end of 2025, the programme reflects the brand’s long-term investment in child development and community resilience. Guests also visited a local primary school already benefiting from the initiative.
Leading through care and integrity
With 6,000+ bakery employees, virtually 100% of packaging waste recycled, and a growing portfolio of health-conscious SKUs – including low GI, whole wheat, and seeded breads – PepsiCo’s bakery business is shaping the future of food responsibly and inclusively.
“This is what leading with purpose looks like,” said Vilosha Soni, CMO of PepsiCo. “Our goal is to be South Africa’s leading (and trusted) food and beverage company, and we know trust is built by showing, not just saying.”
