A Co-op Food Shelf Filler, also known as a Stock Replenisher, plays a critical role in ensuring that customers have access to fresh, well-stocked shelves every time they shop. This front-line retail position helps maintain product availability, improves the overall shopping experience, and contributes to the smooth operation of the store. From rotating stock and checking expiry dates to creating attractive displays and providing excellent customer service, this role demands reliability, attention to detail, and strong work ethic.
As of 2025, the average salary for a Shelf Filler or Stock Replenisher at Co-op in the UK ranges from £10.90 to £12.50 per hour, depending on location and experience. Additional perks often include staff discounts, paid holidays, and opportunities for career advancement within the retail sector.
If you’re preparing for an interview, the questions below will help you showcase your skills and land the job.
1. Tell us a bit about yourself.
This is your chance to summarize your background in a professional, concise way.
Example Answer:
“I’m a hard-working and dependable individual with experience in fast-paced environments. I’m known for being organized, punctual, and customer-focused. I enjoy working as part of a team and take pride in maintaining high standards of cleanliness and stock presentation.”
2. Why do you want to work at Co-op?
Recruiters want to hear that you’re genuinely interested in the company.
Example Answer:
“I admire Co-op’s values around community and sustainability. I also appreciate the chance to work in a team that focuses on providing a great customer experience.”
3. What does good customer service mean to you?
This gauges your understanding of customer interaction.
Example Answer:
“Good customer service means being helpful, friendly, and responsive. It’s about making sure the customer leaves the store satisfied, whether they needed help finding a product or just a warm greeting.”
4. Can you describe a time you worked as part of a team?
Give a real example that highlights teamwork.
Example Answer:
“In my previous role, I worked with a team to restock shelves overnight. We communicated clearly and split tasks effectively, which helped us finish on time and avoid errors.”
5. How do you stay organized during a busy shift?
Demonstrates time management and planning.
Example Answer:
“I make a quick mental or written checklist of tasks and prioritize based on urgency—like chilled goods first. Staying focused and not letting distractions slow me down is key.”
6. What would you do if a customer asked for help finding a product?
Tests customer service mindset.
Example Answer:
“I would stop what I’m doing and either walk them to the product or find someone who can help. It’s important they feel valued.”
7. How do you handle repetitive tasks like shelf-stocking?
Shows resilience and work ethic.
Example Answer:
“I see repetitive tasks as an opportunity to improve efficiency. I try to stay focused, take pride in doing the job right, and make it a goal to beat my previous timing.”
8. How do you ensure shelves are safe and neat?
Important for safety and store standards.
Example Answer:
“I check for loose items, broken packaging, or blocked aisles. I also make sure labels face forward and products are rotated by date.”
9. Are you comfortable working early mornings, evenings, or weekends?
Assesses flexibility.
Example Answer:
“Yes, I’m flexible with scheduling and understand that retail hours include evenings and weekends. I’m happy to work when needed.”
10. What would you do if you noticed a spill in the aisle?
Demonstrates initiative.
Example Answer:
“I’d clean it immediately if safe, or block the area and alert a supervisor. Safety is a top priority.”
11. Describe a time you solved a problem at work.
Looks for critical thinking.
Example Answer:
“Once, a delivery was missing key items. I quickly checked the manifest, called the supplier, and informed the manager—ensuring we got a replacement in time.”
12. How would you handle an angry customer?
Tests your conflict resolution skills.
Example Answer:
“I’d stay calm, listen carefully, and try to resolve the issue politely. If it needed escalation, I’d involve a supervisor.”
13. Are you physically able to handle lifting and moving stock?
Important for job suitability.
Example Answer:
“Yes, I’m physically fit and used to handling loads within safe lifting limits.”
14. How do you handle working under pressure?
Demonstrates stress management.
Example Answer:
“I focus on staying calm and breaking tasks down into smaller steps. Communication with my team also helps ease the pressure.”
15. What would you do if you noticed a colleague not following procedures?
Assesses integrity.
Example Answer:
“I’d speak to them discreetly first, and if needed, inform a supervisor. It’s important to maintain standards.”
16. How do you prioritize when there’s more than one task at hand?
Shows ability to manage workload.
Example Answer:
“I’d assess urgency—for example, stocking refrigerated items first. I also check with my supervisor to align with priorities.”
17. Are you comfortable using handheld scanners or stock control systems?
Relevant to technology used in-store.
Example Answer:
“Yes, I’ve used similar devices and I’m a quick learner. I’m confident I can pick up any system with a little training.”
18. How do you make sure expired products are removed?
Highlights attention to detail.
Example Answer:
“I always check dates during restocking and follow the First In, First Out (FIFO) method. I also check date labels during shelf checks.”
19. What motivates you to do well at work?
Helps assess work ethic.
Example Answer:
“I like feeling useful and appreciated. Doing a good job and knowing I’m helping both the team and customers motivates me.”
20. Why should we hire you for this role?
Your final pitch.
Example Answer:
“I’m reliable, hard-working, and customer-focused. I’m confident I can keep shelves stocked, organized, and support the team in delivering excellent service.”
Final Interview Tips and Encouragement
Congratulations on preparing this far! Interviewing for a Co-op Food Shelf Filler role is your opportunity to highlight not just your work ethic, but your attitude, team spirit, and customer-first mindset.
Tips to Remember:
Dress neatly and arrive early.
Research Co-op’s values and community initiatives.
Practice answers aloud but speak naturally.
Smile, make eye contact, and show enthusiasm.
This role is a solid step into the retail industry and can lead to exciting career development. Believe in your value—if you’ve prepared, you’re already ahead of many other candidates. Good luck, and go in confident!
