Working in a grocery store is one of the most common ways to enter the European job market, especially for newcomers and students. Grocery stores are always hiring cashiers, shelf stockers, cleaners, delivery staff, and customer service workers. With supermarkets in every city and town, the demand for staff remains steady across Europe.

Why consider grocery store jobs in Europe

• High demand: Supermarkets, convenience stores, and hypermarkets need staff year-round.

• Entry-level roles: Most positions don’t require advanced education or work experience.

• Flexible shifts: Both part-time and full-time contracts are available.

• Steady income: Jobs are usually paid at or slightly above the minimum wage in each country.

• Opportunities for growth: Workers can progress to supervisors, team leaders, or store managers with experience.

Basic requirements to get hired

Most grocery store jobs are entry-level, but you may need to meet some general conditions:

• A work permit or visa if you’re a non-EU citizen

• Basic communication skills in the local language (German, French, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, etc.)

• Physical stamina for tasks like lifting boxes, stocking shelves, or long shifts

• Customer service skills, since many roles involve direct interaction with shoppers

Average wages for grocery store jobs in Europe (2025)

Wages vary by country, company, and role. Here’s an overview of what you can expect:

• Germany: €12.41 per hour (minimum wage, higher in big supermarkets)

• France: €11.65 per hour (SMIC wage for cashiers and clerks)

• Spain: Around €1,134 per month (for full-time roles)

• Italy: €7–€9 per hour, depending on contract type

• Netherlands: €13.27 per hour for adults (youth rates slightly lower)

• UK: £11.44 per hour (National Minimum Wage for adults, higher in London)

? Larger chains like Aldi, Lidl, Carrefour, Tesco, and Edeka often offer slightly higher pay along with staff discounts and overtime pay.

Common job roles in grocery stores

• Cashiers – handling billing and customer transactions

• Shelf stockers – arranging goods and restocking products

• Store assistants – general cleaning, helping customers, and maintaining store order

• Delivery staff – handling grocery orders for online customers

• Supervisors/Managers – overseeing staff and store operations (requires experience)

Where to find grocery store jobs in Europe

• Company websites: Aldi, Lidl, Carrefour, Tesco, Edeka, Auchan, Sainsbury’s, and other chains regularly list job vacancies.

• Job portals: EURES (EU job mobility portal), Indeed, Glassdoor, and EuroJobs.

• Local ads: Community boards, supermarket notice boards, or regional job sites.

• Recruitment agencies: Some agencies hire seasonal or part-time staff for supermarkets.

Tips to increase your chances

1. Write a short, clear CV highlighting customer service or retail experience.

2. Apply directly to supermarkets online—many prefer internal applications.

3. Be flexible with shifts (evenings and weekends are common in retail).

4. Learn basic phrases in the local language to handle customers better.

5. Look for student or part-time contracts if you’re studying abroad.

Challenges to consider

• Work can be physically tiring due to standing long hours or stocking heavy goods.

• Low starting wages compared to other sectors.

• Weekend and holiday shifts are often required.

• Language barriers may limit customer-facing roles unless you improve your skills.

Finding work in a grocery store in Europe is one of the most accessible ways to secure a job abroad. It doesn’t require advanced qualifications, and positions are available year-round in nearly every city. With basic language skills, a valid work permit, and flexibility in shifts, you can quickly land a role in supermarkets or convenience stores. Over time, grocery store jobs can also open doors to higher roles in retail management.