So Im a new hire in produce, and I havent really had any formal training, or anything looks that. Basically just people showing me around and telling me to stock things when theyre low... what are some of my responsibilites and what things should I be doing other than running back and forth stocking one/two fruits at a time?
Your cart should have AT LEAST 12 items/cases on it. Start making your list from the front tables but put an emphasis on products that are extremely low... e.g. if you are working on apples but see that turnips are nearly empty, you should include the turnips on your cart too.
Don't be afraid to throw away or mark down product. Don't leave anything on the shelf you wouldn't want your mom to buy. Keep tables and green rack full at all times to the best of your ability. Work smarter, not harder. If you have questions don't be afraid to ask. Watch how the experienced/seasoned produce clerks work and have them mentor you. Produce is a great department for becoming a backup/lead.
Make every effort to work clean. It will make your and your coworker's jobs so much easier. Find out if they have a U-boat or a flatbed where they stack the cardboard before they take it to the baler or if they are taking it away right away.
Put everything where it belongs, don't leave random things laying around. Like a box with spoiled fruit. Either bag it in the markdown bags, or dump it in the compost.
While you are working on the tables, keep an eye on items that are on sale. Those will get low much faster than other items. Also bananas. While you are working on your flatbed, get a shopping cart (frowned upon) or empty flatbed, load it up with berries, bananas and sale items and fill them, then go back to your flatbed.
Everytime you are filling the tables, look for damaged/spoiled fruit. Have a box on your flatbed to collect those. If it only has a blemish or it's not very fresh, you can put it in the red markdown bag. Those with cuts or punctures, dump in the compost.
When you are making your "shopping list", stand at the entrance and look at your department. Which tables jump out at you as being low on product? Fill those first, even if you have to hop-scotch between isles. So, first you fill low spots that are facing the entrance, only after that you fill tables that you can't see from the door.
Ask your boss how they rotate. Basically you should put fruit from the table in a box, clean the table, then put new product on it and put old product on top of it.
Try not to cut corners, because that will make it harder for everybody.
Produce can be very rewarding. Have fun and Good luck!
