A Costa Coffee Store Manager plays a vital role in ensuring smooth operations, exceptional customer service, and strong team leadership across the brand’s bustling locations. This role is more than just managing coffee — it’s about creating a memorable customer experience, maintaining operational excellence, and driving business growth. Store Managers are responsible for leading a team, hitting sales targets, managing inventory, overseeing daily operations, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
The average salary for a Costa Coffee Store Manager in the UK ranges from £26,000 to £35,000 per year, with potential bonuses based on performance. Candidates in this role often progress into higher management levels, making it a strong stepping stone for a career in retail leadership.
To help you prepare for your upcoming interview, here are 20 commonly asked Costa Coffee Store Manager interview questions, complete with sample answers.
1. Tell us about your experience managing a team in a retail or hospitality environment.
I’m an experienced retail manager with over five years of leading teams in fast-paced settings. In my last role, I managed a team of 12, focusing on training, performance tracking, and motivating staff to exceed targets. My leadership resulted in a 20% increase in customer satisfaction scores.
2. How do you handle high-pressure situations during peak hours?
I prioritize organization and delegation. During peak hours, I make sure everyone knows their specific roles. I stay calm, step in where needed, and keep communication clear to minimize chaos and maintain excellent service.
3. What strategies would you use to increase store sales?
I focus on upselling techniques, engaging customer experiences, seasonal promotions, and ensuring staff product knowledge. I also monitor KPIs regularly and identify areas for improvement.
4. How do you ensure a consistent customer experience?
Consistency starts with staff training and regular coaching. I set high service standards and lead by example, ensuring every customer receives warm, friendly service that reflects Costa’s values.
5. Describe a time you handled a conflict within your team.
In a previous role, two staff members had a scheduling conflict. I mediated the conversation by listening to both sides, reviewing rota fairness, and found a compromise. Both staff members appreciated the solution, and team morale remained strong.
6. How would you train a new team member at Costa?
I’d start with an induction focused on Costa’s brand, hygiene, and safety standards. Then, I’d assign a mentor, gradually introduce them to key responsibilities, and check in regularly to offer feedback and support.
7. What would you do if your store was consistently underperforming?
I’d conduct a root cause analysis by reviewing sales reports, customer feedback, and team performance. From there, I’d implement targeted improvements — such as retraining staff, adjusting scheduling, or running local promotions.
8. How do you motivate your team?
I recognize achievements, set clear goals, and maintain open communication. I also celebrate wins, no matter how small, and offer development opportunities to keep team members engaged.
9. What do you know about Costa Coffee’s values?
Costa is built on passion, courage, warmth, and trust. These values reflect how staff treat customers and each other, which I fully align with as a people-first manager.
10. How do you handle customer complaints?
I listen actively, empathize, and resolve the issue quickly while maintaining professionalism. I also ensure I follow up and coach staff on how to prevent similar problems in the future.
11. How do you ensure health and safety standards are met in-store?
I conduct regular checks, ensure staff are trained and up-to-date with policies, and keep detailed records. I also lead by example and address non-compliance immediately.
12. What is your approach to managing store inventory?
I monitor stock levels closely using sales data trends, order strategically, and avoid overstocking or running out of high-demand items. I also implement rotation to reduce waste.
13. How do you plan and manage rotas effectively?
I create rotas that match business demand, staff availability, and fairness. I use digital scheduling tools and maintain flexibility to cover unexpected absences.
14. Tell me about a time you had to hit a tight deadline.
During a seasonal promotion, I had just two days to prep staff and store. I created a detailed action plan, led training, and ensured we launched successfully and met sales targets.
15. What KPIs would you monitor as a Costa Store Manager?
Key metrics include daily sales, average transaction value, customer satisfaction scores, staff turnover, waste reduction, and labour costs.
16. How would you handle underperformance from a team member?
I’d have a one-on-one discussion to understand the cause, provide support or training, and set measurable goals. I’d monitor progress and offer consistent feedback.
17. Describe your leadership style.
I practice a participative leadership style — I believe in collaboration, empowering staff, and leading by example. I set high standards but also offer support and encouragement.
18. What would you do if a barista called in sick during a busy shift?
I’d assess the impact, reassign roles, and if needed, step in myself. I’d also contact available team members to fill the gap while ensuring service quality remains high.
19. How do you handle a sudden inspection from a regional manager?
I maintain store readiness at all times through regular checks and high standards. I view inspections as opportunities to showcase our strengths and identify areas for growth.
20. Why do you want to work at Costa Coffee as a Store Manager?
I admire Costa’s commitment to community and quality. As someone passionate about customer service and team development, I’m excited about the chance to contribute to a leading brand.
Final Interview Coaching Tips and Encouragement
Preparing for your Costa Coffee Store Manager interview means more than just practicing answers — it’s about showing your leadership mindset, customer-first approach, and love for coffee culture. Be confident, be authentic, and don’t forget to smile — Costa is all about warmth and passion.
Quick Tips:
Dress professionally but approachable.
Research the brand and visit a store if you haven’t.
Ask insightful questions at the end of the interview.
Show genuine enthusiasm for leadership and customer service.
Best of luck — you’ve got this. Your next great opportunity might just start with a warm cup of Costa coffee.
