Store Manager Review

Overall management of a busy food convenience store - control of payroll costs, minimising wastage, maximising profits, growing sales, improving footfall, community fundraising, promoting health and safety in the workplace.

Maximising teamwork through management models, improving profit and loss. I’ve also improved my time management and planning, as well as helped to understand and influence the employee engagement within my store.

I am thoroughly enjoying the learning experience and meeting new people in different areas of the business is invaluable as it helps me improve my communication networks. The off site learning days have been perfectly paced with plenty of content to soak up.

It is exceptionally well organised with a wide variety of tutors who have been absolutely amazing, The support structure is great and the tutors always reply to emails or telephone queries in a prompt, helpful and friendly way,

It has been amazing - we get 3 apprentice days per period (month) to structure how we please. The flexibility has been great and we can arrange off site meetings, visits to head office, or simply have time to complete assigns we see fit. My area manager has been very supportive.

Lots of help, support, quick replies to requests for direction. The university tutors have been exceptionally helpful and thoughtful throughout the process and have given valuable feedback when we need it most.

I have benefitted from a much deeper understanding which I have cascaded down to my management team within the store. As a result, motivation and engagement has improved and two of my team are eager to become involved in the apprenticeship programme in the future.

I have had invitations via email from the university - various trips and outings - however, I have found the best way to socialise with my cohort is at the off site days during the evening meals.

Yes

Co-op really does ‘walk the walk’ - they operate in a different, socially-aware way than most retailers and it isn’t just a gimmick - the ways of working and cornerstones of the business are very inclusive and forward thinking.

Be yourself! Be open and honest and don’t be afraid to be an individual. The Co-op are a thriving business at a time when many retailers are struggling - being able to express yourself and have a direct impact in your working environment is great.