Case studies : Sandwich placement, Lidl: Vicki Strongitharm

Vicki Strongitharm did a 48-week placement at the supermarket.

While at university I attended the NEC placements fair and was aware that Lidl would be there. I researched the company beforehand and while there spoke to some current placement students about their experiences.

After my initial twelve weeks basic training where I experienced the core areas of the business including stores and Head Office, I began my first module in store. I trained as a Deputy Store Manager and then did Sales for my second module and began my Store Manager training. For my final module, I decided I wanted to extend my knowledge of Lidl and experience the business from a different angle, so I chose to spend six weeks in Property which was split between acquisitions and construction.

I then went on to spend my final six weeks with my Area Manager, experiencing management from a different angle. The flexibility of the placement gave me so much opportunity to develop and see the business as a whole rather than from just one area.

The most enjoyable module was Sales, as it held the most responsibility and I faced a different challenge every day and dealt with various demanding situations.

Since I began my placement I have grown in confidence, having dealt with situations that previously I would have tried to avoid. Each day I would learn something new and extend on my skills and knowledge. I had aims for my placement year and feel that I have fulfilled each of them better than I initially proposed.

I would advise future placement students to work hard and value each day of their placement, as everything they get involved in will be a valuable part of their training and future development.