Aldi Lewisham: Grocer 33 store of the week

Aldi store managers work notoriously hard - so what’s it like to run a store? If you’re looking for an easy job then Aldi isn’t the place for you. But the company is very fair. From day one it’s made clear you have to work hard, but the company pays well and looks after you. If you are hardworking and honest you’ll enjoy working for Aldi.

How long have you worked at Aldi? Since June 1999. I wanted to join a growing, fast-paced business that offered benefits and career progression.

Is it a new store or a refurbished one? The store first opened in 1998, and was recently extended in 2015. It’s proved really popular. It’s one of the larger Aldi stores.

One common criticism of Aldi is of its overcrowded car parks, but our mystery shopper gave it a maximum score. What’s different? We use a car park management system to control and improve the flow of traffic in and out of the car park, which seems to do the job. We occasionally get queues when it is really busy, but generally it works well.

Another is that checkout assistants are rushed, but our shopper said the checkout staff member was “really friendly and professional”. How do you make the checkout experience more relaxed? We offer the best value but people don’t want that at the expense of customer service. We make a point of explaining to customers, especially those visiting Aldi for the first time, how our checkout and packing system works. Our focus is on the customer and making sure they can shop and get everything they need with minimum fuss or disruption.

How do you personally make a difference in store? I roll my sleeves up. I don’t just stand around telling people what to do. I also try to listen to the team and give them the support they need.

How were sales over Valentine’s Day weekend? It was a fantastic. We had a range of teddy bears, chocolates and roses in store that all sold really well. Our 100 roses for £25 was probably the most popular product.