Local MSP John Lamont got behind his local food counters in Hawick and Kelso Sainsbury’s stores recently to experience a day in the life of a staff and learn a bit about preparing food and serving local customers.
The work experience took place on 7th and 14th November, where John Lamont MSP was welcomed by staff at the meat, fish and hot food counters. The visit was arranged to give John the opportunity to learn about the skills and training Sainsbury’s colleagues receive and get a few tips on how to make pizzas, fruit tarts and pack rolls.
Earlier this year Sainsbury’s became the first retailer to win three consecutive ‘Gold Investors in People’ awards for supporting, developing and motivating its colleagues. As a major employer in the Borders, it is significant that the retailer has been praised for its professional development opportunities, with Sainsbury’s running seven food colleges across the UK, hosting over 37,000 training courses since 2010.
John Lamont MSP said “It was great to join staff behind the food counters at Sainsbury’s in Hawick and Kelso.
“I got to hear about the excellent training the company provides for its staff and it was good to see high quality local jobs on offer in the Borders. Sainsbury’s provide staff with City & Guilds qualifications at their seven food colleges, which is good for staff as well as the business.
“Chatting to staff, I could see the team are incredibly hard working and provide a great service. It was also quite fun trying my hand a making pizzas and providing food for customers. Luckily, I didn’t receive any complaints!”
Counter Manager/Team Leader Graeme from the Hawick store added: “We were delighted to host John for the day, and it was great to showcase the wide range of skills our colleagues here have to offer.
"Our business is constantly adapting based to suit the changing needs of our customers, so learning and development for colleagues is as important as ever in order to continue delivering great customer service.
"I know our colleagues were happy to share tips they’ve learnt during their time with Sainsbury’s, and John was a quick learner!”