Controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2025
Pet Storey animal-sales controversy
A visitor’s video showing puppies at the first Pet Storey outlet triggered public criticism concerning animal welfare and the appropriateness of selling puppies through retail stores. SPAR initially attributed the practice to the pre-existing Petmasters business and said it would not be replicated. Following further inquiries, the group stated that it would cease participating in the sale of animals and would seek welfare support for animals remaining at the store.
2022
McCain recalls frozen green beans and French stir fry products
Recall announced
McCain Foods South Africa issued a voluntary nationwide recall of certain bags of frozen sliced green beans and Spar-brand French stir fry after reports that small glass fragments had been detected. McCain said the fragments originated from a light fitting and affected a limited batch; it said impacted stock had been removed from retail shelves and retailers and foodservice customers had been notified of return procedures.
Company response
Remediation — McCain Foods South Africa
Stringent measures have been put in place to address the situation and a formal block has also been issued across our cold chain and our relevant networks, and all potentially impacted stock has been removed from retail shelves.
Source excerpt
McCain Foods South Africa has issued a voluntary product recall nationwide on certain bags of frozen sliced green beans and Spar-brand French stir fry.
We have ascertained the source of the material, confirming it to be small glass fragments originating from a light fitting that has affected a limited batch of products only,
The recall follows reports that small glass fragments had been detected in the food products.
2020
SPAR apologizes for misleading coronavirus posters and removes them
Company response
SPAR apologized for displaying incorrect posters suggesting domestic animals could spread coronavirus. The group said it instructed stores to remove the misleading posters and replace them with correct communication, and reported a R400,000 donation to animal welfare organizations.
Company response
Apology — SPAR
The Spar Group has apologised for spreading misinformation regarding Covid-19 and domestic animals.
Remediation — SPAR
We have instructed all stores to immediately remove the misleading posters and replace them with the correct communication.
Source excerpt
We have instructed all stores to immediately remove the misleading posters and replace them with the correct communication.
It made a R 400,000 donation to all SPCAs, the NSPCA and other animal welfare organisations throughout South Africa.
Last week the supermarket group displayed in stores a controversial poster which suggested domestic animals, like cats and dogs, could spread the coronavirus.
2020
SPAR recalls Pesto Chicken Breast Sizzlers
Recall announced
In September 2020, SPAR recalled its Pesto Chicken Breast Sizzlers. According to the recall notice, the product contained egg that was not declared on the label. The recall was issued over allergy concerns, as the undeclared egg could pose a risk to consumers with an egg allergy. The notice did not specify affected batch codes, quantities, or the outcome of the recall. The information was reported by The Westmorland Gazette.
SPAR is recalling Pesto Chicken Breast Sizzlers because they contain egg that is not listed on the label.
Company response
Recall — SPAR