Retail Placement Programme Review

My role differed throughout the placement as I moved between different departments within the business and so no two days were the same. The final rotation of my placement was in store being trained to the level of deputy store manager where the day would start with working the delivery before the store opens. After this, the focus shifted to store presentation, inventory checks, rota planning and stock integrity and management.

The skill that I have developed most throughout the placement was my confidence and communication. Having to meet so many new people moving between departments forced me to look at how sub-departments communicate differently within themselves and each other. Each area have a unique set of objectives that work towards the shared goal of providing the best possible service at the best possible price to customers; seamless communication is vital for this.

I was given much more responsibility than I thought I would have been given. Within the supply chain department, I was responsible for ordering all of the freezer and long-life chiller lines for all 70 stores in the region. When in store, I was responsible for running the shift and in turn, the store. With this came the responsibility of managing stock integrity, availability, rota planning and legal documentation.

Throughout the placement year I had monthly check-ins with the regional training consultant who was also my line manager. I also had two meetings with the regional director and regional training manager to discuss my development and progress. Lidl have an excellent training academy that takes you through the material you need to know for the role in addition to managerial and soft skill courses in order to support your personal and professional progression.

The culture at Lidl is is generally very positive however due to the fast-paced and target-oriented environment, it can sometimes be difficult and stressful to employees. As a result of this, there can be friction between colleagues and departments that make the atmosphere a little uncomfortable.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement year and am very sad to have come to the end of the experience. I am looking forward to applying for Lidl’s graduate scheme as I enjoyed the placement so much. I am looking at staying at Lidl part time in my final year of study which demonstrates how much I love working for the company.

Yes

I would suggest applicants gain a good understanding of how tough the discount retail environment can be. It is very demanding and fast-paced, requiring you to learn quickly and use initiative to day-to-day. In terms of the interview process, I would suggest applicants look into Lidls sustainability initiatives as it’s a big focus in the company at the moment.