Apprentice Customer Service

Duties will include:

• Welcome customers, identify their needs and answer in-store, telephone and digital enquiries
• Process till payments and receipts accurately and follow cash-handling procedures
• Learn specialist African and Asian grocery names, pronunciation and culinary uses, using verified product information
• Check and rotate stock, maintain price labels and displays, and report shortages or discrepancies
• Support WhatsApp and Shopify orders, availability checks, order preparation and collection enquiries
• Record feedback, resolve routine issues within agreed authority and refer complaints to the Director
• Follow food safety, health and safety and data-protection procedures

Applicants from all ethnic and cultural backgrounds are welcome. Selection is based on relevant skills, suitability and willingness to learn. Product training will be provided.

• The successful candidate will work towards achieving their Apprenticeship Standard in Customer Service Level 2
• A dedicated work-based trainer will be assigned to the candidate to provide them with support and guidance throughout the course
• This is a predominantly work-based programme with College attendance required once a month
• All learning will take place at the candidate's place of employment/College and within their contracted working hours

• Possible progression into retail customer service, digital order support or further relevant training, subject to performance and business needs

Shop work includes standing, stocking shelves and safe handling of goods, with appropriate support.

Delivery duties and any driving requirements are not included as confirmed requirements for this customer-service form.

First appointment target: November 2026, subject to College intake, eligibility and onboarding. If this is the later appointment, the start is planned a few months after the first and the exact date is to be agreed.

Cowries Group Ltd trades as Cowries Mart, a specialist grocery retailer in Gainsborough. Around 80% of the current food range is African and Asian. The company supports in-store sales, WhatsApp and Shopify orders, and local business relationships. The business is also supported by a partner and volunteers.