Pros
The staff experience at Co-operative Food can differ quite a lot depending on which shop you are working at. I was quite unfortunate in that most shops I have worked at have been somewhat understaffed or simply in very busy locations. Keep this in mind for my review. - Staff discount is handy, and the double discount on pay day makes it easier to buy a few luxuries. - Good opportunities to move up. - Hierarchy isn't too imposing. All levels of in-shop staff are able to talk and be friendly whilst management is still respected as the authority.
Cons
- Shops often very hectic - Shift work ranging from half 7 in the morning (6 if you learn how to use the bakery) to 11 at night seven days a week (including bank holidays) make the job quite all-consuming. I was hoping to use this position as a jumping board to alternative employment but it left me very tired most of the time and the mindless music that plays throughout the shop left my mind utterly numb. - Most shops I worked at were quite understaffed.
