About Company
Co-op Food is a distinguished British consumer co-operative, deeply rooted in community values and ethical principles. As one of the UK’s leading food retailers, we take immense pride in consistently providing high-quality products, championing ethical sourcing, and delivering truly exceptional service to the local communities we serve. Our fundamental purpose is to advocate for and achieve a better way of doing business, benefiting not only our members but also the wider communities around us. We firmly believe in investing significantly in our colleagues, offering genuine opportunities for professional growth and development, and fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where every individual can thrive and reach their full potential. Joining Co-op means becoming an integral part of a forward-thinking movement that prioritises people first, actively supports local initiatives, and diligently works towards building a more sustainable and equitable future. Our stores are more than just retail outlets; they are often vibrant hubs at the heart of the neighbourhoods they serve, reflecting our unwavering commitment to making a tangible, positive difference in people’s lives. We are proud to be recognised as more than just a shop; we are a vital centre for community connection, fair trade advocacy, and responsible, community-focused retailing.
Job Description
Are you a friendly, highly organised, and intensely customer-focused individual looking to kickstart or significantly further your career in the bustling and rewarding world of retail? Co-op Food at Drayton Park is actively seeking a dedicated, enthusiastic, and reliable Retail Counter Clerk to join our vibrant and essential storefront team. This is a pivotal, hands-on role where you’ll truly be the face of our store, directly impacting our customers’ daily experience by ensuring every visit is positive, efficient, and seamless from start to finish. You’ll be at the very heart of our operational rhythm, primarily responsible for accurately and efficiently handling customer transactions, whether processing purchases, managing returns, or assisting with other inquiries at the counter with a keen eye for detail. Beyond the till, you’ll play a key role in maintaining the appealing presentation of our products, ensuring shelves are consistently well-stocked, meticulously clean, and perfectly organised, ready for our valued community members. This isn’t just a job; it’s a genuine opportunity to become an integral part of the local Drayton Park community, building meaningful relationships with our valued customers and directly supporting the smooth, efficient, and welcoming operation of our busy neighbourhood store. If you thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, genuinely love interacting with people from all walks of life, and are committed to delivering consistently excellent service with a warm smile, then we strongly encourage you to apply. We’re specifically seeking someone who is reliable, demonstrates meticulous attention to detail, and is eager to contribute positively to a friendly and welcoming store atmosphere, helping us maintain our esteemed reputation as a trusted local retailer. You’ll play a vital role in ensuring our checkout areas are tidy, our product displays are impactful, and most importantly, our customers leave with everything they need and a positive impression. This predominantly storefront position demands a proactive approach, exceptional communication skills, and a genuine passion for retail excellence and active community engagement. You’ll be a key player in creating the warm, efficient shopping environment our customers expect and deserve.
Key Responsibilities
- Process customer transactions accurately and efficiently using the point-of-sale (POS) system.
- Handle cash, card payments, and manage returns/exchanges in accordance with company policy.
- Provide exceptional customer service, assisting shoppers with product inquiries, locating items, and resolving issues.
- Maintain a clean, organised, and well-stocked counter area and adjacent shelves.
- Replenish stock on shelves, ensuring products are faced correctly and priced accurately.
- Assist with receiving and organising deliveries, checking for discrepancies.
- Conduct age verification for restricted products (e.g., alcohol, tobacco) responsibly.
- Support overall store cleanliness and tidiness, including sweeping, wiping surfaces, and general upkeep.
- Collaborate effectively with team members to ensure smooth store operations and a positive working environment.
- Adhere strictly to all health, safety, and security procedures.
Required Skills
- Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills
- Strong communication abilities, both verbal and written
- Basic mathematical skills for cash handling and calculations
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced retail environment
- Reliability and punctuality
- A positive, can-do attitude and willingness to learn
- Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays
Preferred Qualifications
- Minimum of 6 months experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail or hospitality setting.
- Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems.
- Basic knowledge of food hygiene and safety standards.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive hourly pay
- Generous colleague discount across Co-op stores and products
- Comprehensive pension scheme
- Paid breaks
- Access to a range of exclusive Co-op membership benefits
- Opportunities for career development and progression within a large national retailer
- Flexible scheduling options to support work-life balance
- Employee assistance program for personal and professional support
- The chance to be part of a community-focused ethical business
How to Apply
To apply for this exciting Retail Counter Clerk role, please click on the application link below. We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible, as we will be reviewing candidates on an ongoing basis. We look forward to receiving your application and potentially welcoming you to the Co-op Food team in Drayton Park!