John Lowry, Retail Graduate at Applegreen

Why did you apply for Applegreen?

Applegreen is a growing company with a strong reputation for providing quality service and products. The company's commitment to sustainability and community involvement aligns with my personal values, and I believe working for Applegreen would offer opportunities for professional growth and development.

What are you favourite parts of the programme?

I chose this graduate programme because it aligns with my career goals. The programme offers a diverse range of rotations with opportunities to gain hands-on experience in various functions of the business. Additionally, the programme’s international opportunity to work in the USA is an exciting prospect to broaden my worldview and add to my personal and professional development.

What is the culture like?

The culture of Applegreen is one of the main reasons I am excited to work here. From my time in Applegreen, it's clear that the company values collaboration, innovation, and work-life balance.

Employees are encouraged to express their ideas, take initiative, and support each other, which creates a positive and productive work environment. I look forward to continuing to be a part of this culture and contributing to the company's success.

What do other graduates/new starters enjoy when they start working here and what do they find most challenging?

The joys of working in Applegreen are many. I enjoy collaborating with talented and diverse colleagues, contributing to meaningful projects, and continuously learning and developing new skills.

While working in any company can present various challenges, these can also offer opportunities for growth and development. The fast-paced nature of the retail industry can be challenging but once adapted to this industry it can build resilience and agility.

How have you found the training and development?

For me, the benefits of training and development offered by Applegreen are invaluable. I appreciate the opportunity to continuously learn and develop new skills, which not only enhances my performance and productivity but also keeps me engaged and motivated.

As someone who values personal and professional growth, I find that having access to training and development opportunities is a key factor in my job satisfaction. Furthermore, knowing that the company invests in its graduates’ development and supports our career goals creates a positive and supportive work environment, which makes me proud to be part of the team.

What are the benefits of starting your professional career in the retail industry?

Starting my professional career in the retail industry has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Working in a fast-paced and dynamic environment has taught me valuable skills in communication, customer service, and problem-solving, which are applicable in many different fields.

Additionally, the industry's focus on teamwork and collaboration has allowed me to form strong relationships with my colleagues and gain exposure to various aspects of the business. Overall, I believe that starting my career in the retail industry has given me a solid foundation for future success.