I am a checker for a TOP Foods store. It is important to know Haggen and TOP are related (not suggesting they don't want you to know). Haggen stores are more "upscale" "high end" and higher priced. Workers in checkout are not required (read "disciplined if they don't") to work as fast as workers at TOP Foods stores. Haggen workers are paid the same as TOP workers, or at least they work under the same contracts.
Consumers can consciously spend a bit more, and get better service at Haggen. Customers at TOP, many of whom don't have a Haggen store nearby, are unaware that their frustration with long lines, lack of service or selection in various departments, and often stressed out workers greeting them at checkout relates to this double standard.
As a checker, I am responsible for correctly accepting and finishing all orders. I am aware at all times of my responsibility to protect the company's assets through accurate cash/negotiables handling. This requirement also protects the consumer. When we are given fewer hours to pay workers to do this job right, something has to suffer. Usually, it's the workers mental and physical health which is hit the hardest.
Ofcourse, customers also suffer ill effects; slower lines, more mistakes on their bills, poorly trained workers, fewer offers of "carry out" to cars, less friendly help, less individualized service, and a greater turnover in workers (alienating to customers who comment "Who are these people?").
I want my store to succeed. Even when I no longer work there, it is a valuable asset to our community. It provides union jobs and many community minded activities. When "bottom line" thinking prevents me from doing my job right, it results in damage to the customer and that reduces sales and that threatens the wellbeing of the company overall. Every place can't beat Walmart's prices every day. Haggen already has two classifications of store service and prices. People will pay a little more for better service choice. It applies to TOP Foods just as much. Customers will be loyal to quality.
I (and the vast majority of my coworkers) was hired to give good, accurate customer service. I have been making more and more mistakes as our number of workers per customer ratio has slipped into a downward spiral. I may not be allowed to work at TOP soon, because of these errors.
Consumers are ripped off by "bottom line" minimum wage 10 cents service companies, and Haggen/TOP Foods is fast becoming one.
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