Wellington checkout operators compete: Checker of the Year

Media release

27 August 2014

Wellington checkout operators compete for Checker of the Year

Last night, checkout operators from Wellington New World and PAK’nSAVE stores had their moment to shine in the spotlight at the Hollywood-themed Foodstuffs Checker of the Year regional competition at the St James Theatre.

More than 80 New World and PAK’nSAVE checkers were judged by a team of eight senior Foodstuffs staff on their speed, presentation, customer service and accuracy as they scanned 30 items as fast as possible, while staying friendly and composed.

The top three checkers were Laura Bishop from New World Karori, Olivia Keay from New World Island Bay and Janiella Abelita from New World Miramar.

The Wellington winners will now head to the regional final in November to compete for the title of Customer Service Superstar.

The competitors’ colleagues, dressed in the “Hollywood Greats” theme, with costumes ranging from Star Wars to Bollywood stars, cheered them on with banners, chants and store mascots.

“Checkout operators are the face of our stores, and a competition that encourages them to excel helps ensure Foodstuffs’ customers are getting the best customer service,” said event organiser Kristie McGregor.

“The Checker of the Year competition has been going for over 40 years now, and it is a fun way to keep staff motivated. All the stores put up a big contingent of supporters, so even the people not competing get involved in the team spirit,” Kristie McGregor said.

The night was complete with a ‘grab a bag’ competition before the prize giving, where supporters had the chance to win gift baskets thanks to Foodstuffs suppliers.

There are three other regional heats in Manawatu, Taranaki and Hawke’s Bay. The top 12 checkers at each event win $50 gift cards, and the top three from each event win extra prizes and go on to compete at the regional finals in Palmerston North on 9 November.

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