At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver excellent customer service and maximise sales in a vibrant retail environment.
- Company: Join the James Hall family at SPAR Acklam Road, a community-focused retailer.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, staff discounts, and opportunities for training and development.
- Other info: Flexible part-time hours with a supportive team and a fun work atmosphere.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in retail with full training and real progression opportunities.
- Qualifications: Reliability, passion for customer service, and a willingness to learn.
Job Description
Posted Thursday 7 May 2026 at 00:00
Our SPAR colleagues play a vital role within the James Hall & Co. Ltd. family. Their dedication helps us deliver excellent service across our network of over 450 company‑owned stores, keeping us firmly rooted in the communities we serve.
We’re proud of the impact our stores have locally and remain committed to continued growth and investment in the future.
Contract
Contract Type: Permanent / Part Time
Hours of work: 18 hours per week
About the Role
As a Retail Assistant, you’ll be at the heart of providing fantastic service to our customers. You’ll work with a friendly, supportive team, helping the store run smoothly while ensuring every customer has a positive experience.
Key Responsibilities
- Maximising sales by delivering excellent customer service
- Controlling costs and reducing waste
- Operating the till and handling cash accurately
- Managing stock levels and replenishing as needed
- Maintaining store security in line with company procedures
Candidate Profile
We’re looking for people who are reliable, approachable, and enthusiastic about customer service. You should also be:
- Friendly and welcoming, making every customer feel valued
- Hardworking and motivated with a positive attitude
- Flexible and adaptable in a busy retail environment
- Responsible and trustworthy, particularly when handling cash and stock
- Keen to contribute to a team and support colleagues
Benefits
- Loyalty Pay – Celebrate your work anniversary with a little extra! You’ll earn an additional £0.55 per hour over the financial year, with the hourly amount increasing the longer you stay with us. Your total is paid as a lump sum in the month following your anniversary.
- 20 % Staff Discount – Enjoy 20 % off your shopping in our company‑owned SPAR stores.
- Pension & Life Insurance – You will be enrolled into the Nest pension scheme. After two years of service, you will also receive life insurance cover.
- Learning & Development – Our in‑house team will support you with fully funded, accredited training and industry‑recognised qualifications.
- Grocery Aid Support – Access free, confidential, 24/7 support through Grocery Aid.
Please note if we receive a high number of applicants, we may close the advert early. We advise interested candidates to submit their applications promptly to avoid disappointment.
SPAR Acklam Road - Retail Assistant employer: James Hall
At SPAR Acklam Road, we pride ourselves on being a supportive and dynamic employer that values our team members as the heart of our business. Located in Middlesbrough, we offer competitive pay, generous staff discounts, and extensive training opportunities to help you grow in your retail career. Join us to be part of a community-focused team where your contributions are recognised and rewarded, ensuring a fulfilling work experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SPAR Acklam Road - Retail Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on SPAR and James Hall. Understanding their values and what they stand for will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when discussing your passion for customer service and teamwork during the actual interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! Even though it’s a retail position, looking smart and presentable can make a great first impression. It shows that you take the opportunity seriously and are ready to represent the SPAR brand well.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity can set you apart from other candidates. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds.
We think you need these skills to ace SPAR Acklam Road - Retail Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Customer Service:When writing your application, let us know why you love helping customers! Share any experiences where you've gone the extra mile to make someone's day better. We want to see that spark in your words!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use simple language and avoid jargon. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your skills and experiences shine through without any fluff!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application for the Retail Assistant role at SPAR Acklam Road. Highlight relevant experiences and skills that match what we're looking for. Show us why you're the perfect fit for our team!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at James Hall
✨Know Your Customer Service Basics
As a Retail Assistant, you'll be all about providing excellent customer service. Brush up on common customer service scenarios and think about how you would handle them. This will show your potential employer that you're ready to engage with customers effectively.
✨Familiarise Yourself with SPAR
Do a bit of research on SPAR and its values. Understanding their commitment to community and customer service will help you align your answers during the interview. Plus, it shows genuine interest in the company!
✨Prepare for Common Interview Questions
Think about questions like 'How would you handle a difficult customer?' or 'What does teamwork mean to you?'. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
✨Dress the Part
Even though it's a retail position, first impressions matter! Dress smartly and appropriately for the interview. It shows that you take the opportunity seriously and are ready to represent the brand well.
