5 Great Retail Companies to Work for in 2022

More often than not, the retail industry is the starting point for those entering the workforce for the first time. For students, a part-time retail job is perfect for earning extra spending money, as well as for gaining transferable skills. Today we’re going to be talking about some great retail companies to work for, in no particular order. Let’s begin.

Publix Super Markets

Publix was founded in 1930 by George Jenkins and to this day remains an employee-owned company. It is one of the largest grocery chains in the United States, with more than 1,200 locations and nearly 230,000 employees. In the entirety of its existence, Publix has never experienced an employee layoff.

Publix offers a number of excellent benefits for its associates, including its healthcare coverage, holiday bonuses, tuition reimbursement, credit union memberships, and more. The company is employee-owned and offers a profit-sharing program and stock purchase plan for all of its employees. Publix is committed to diversity and inclusion both inside and out of the workplace, and has a long history of promoting from within, which gives each of its employees an equal chance at career advancement.

Sheetz, Inc.

Sheetz is a convenience store chain that was established in 1952. Aside from the typical convenience store offerings, each Sheetz location is open 24/7, with some selling gasoline and even featuring full-scale truck stops. Sheetz offers a robust internship program, as well as a high school co-op program; both of which provide hands-on experience for students and recent graduates.

Sheetz is well-known for its tradition of promoting from within, often taking a direct role in helping its employees develop the necessary skills to advance their career. Employees at Sheetz can take advantage of a stock ownership plan, as well as a benefits package that features medical, dental and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, and tuition reimbursement.

Target

It’s probably safe to say that Target doesn’t need a fancy introduction, but for the sake of consistency, why not? Target was established in 1962, and later expanded its operations all over the United States in the 1980s. By now, there are Targets all over the place and it would come as a surprise if you haven’t at least seen one in your travels.

Target operates on its three core values: inclusivity, connection, and drive. The company believes that a diverse team is the key to success, and provides every employee with the opportunity to attend learning and development programs. Through these programs, Target employees can advance their career and earn certificates in a variety of areas, all while under the guidance of experienced mentors. The company offers a benefits package that includes tuition assistance, access to the Target Credit Union, support programs for life events, discounts, and more.

Wegmans Food Markets, Inc.

Wegmans was founded in 1916, making it the longest running company on this list. The company was originally based in Rochester, New York, but has since expanded into many states across the United States. The chain is notable for its large fanbase (yes, you read that right) and loyal customers, with a group of Massachusetts high school students going as far as to perform a musical about the store.

Wegmans prides itself on its “family-like atmosphere,” and expects a lot from its employees in terms of maintaining that experience for its customers. Wegmans is regularly recognized as being one of the best companies to work for, and continues to expand into new areas. Prospective employees can take on part-time or full-time schedules, and will find exciting opportunities such as “cake decorator.” I’m not kidding, that’s an actual job opening at Wegman’s, and if the name is any indication, it seems like a lot of fun!  

CarMax

Looking for some sweet wheels, or maybe a part-time job? CarMax was established in the early 1990s as a “no fee” used car dealer; however, the whole “no fee” thing was eventually dropped. Nevertheless, the company has been extremely successful, taking great care in making sure its used vehicles pass a rigorous 125-point inspection before being cleared for sale. CarMax offers internships and apprenticeships for students and recent graduates, which often lead to entry-level roles.

CarMax provides its employees with the resources they need to learn and improve, while advancing their career. Those looking to start a career with CarMax will find opportunities in sales, the company’s corporate offices, or product management. The company also offers opportunities for those who love to work on cars, or who want to be fleet drivers. CarMax prides itself on its core values and encourages its employees to strive to be their best, while fostering a workplace environment that is inclusive and fair.

And there you have it! The retail industry often finds itself on the receiving end of employee criticism, and while at times warranted, the companies on this list are doing more for their employees than most. With great employee benefits and career advancement opportunities, these retail companies can easily become more than a simple part-time job – they could be the start of a great career!