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Important Note:

v 1.5 is NOT the CURRENT EDITION of the STOCK CLERK GLOSSARY!

VERSION 1.5, the edition you see below, is an OBSOLETE, TRANSITIONAL EDITION of the STOCK CLERK GLOSSARY, never made public, and retained here only for archival purposes. A few highlights:

• The TABS at the top of the page were part of the v 1.5 experiment, and have been disabled so as to avoid confusion.


• The colorful appearance of most ENTRIES below was used to quickly verify that the original, non-semantic mark-up from VERSION 1.0 was properly converted (by hand!) to the meaningful and controllable CSS-based rendering in v 2.0.


• Margin cues for new and changed ENTRIES were also tested in v 1.5, but be aware that v 2.0 contains many more new and changed ENTRIES.


• Various other improvements were made—this is not an exhaustive list.

The MOST CURRENT EDITION of the STOCK CLERK GLOSSARY is VERSION 2.0.

Wanna Speak "Grocery?"

Here's my unofficial Grocery Glossary. It's a dictionary, of sorts -- 28 posts starting with # and going from A to Z, plus HELP as the last entry. I'm trying to list every special grocery word or phrase I've ever heard. (What a challenge!)

Got more? Send in your contributions and I'll give you credit, especially if you work at some other store! Just comment here, or eMail StockClerk_^@gmail_^.com.

(NOTE: Comments are welcome, yes! However, please be aware you are looking at an incomplete FIRST DRAFT that is still being edited on a more or less daily basis. ...Patience, please...)

#

? n. 1. Any question. See CASE NOTATIONS. 2. For glossary HELP, see the last entry, way below.

/// n. Any bridging lines drawn across multiple CASES mean the CASES are identical. See CASE NOTATIONS.

NOTE:

If you have multiple CASES of the same thing, only open one at a time. It makes consolidation of space on RUNNERS easier, and reduces risk of STORE DAMAGE on CARTS or in BACK-STOCK.

Our mythical nemesis, EVIL-STOCK-DUDE, does just the opposite. He opens every CASE, randomly takes a little from each, and leaves partially-full opened CASES of the same ITEM spread out across multiple CARTS.

# n. Any number alone under 20 typically refers to an aisle: "It's at the far end of 8."

#-Face n. See FACE: "That's a 3-face hole."

#/# n. A fractional notation indicating a CASE is a member of a series of identical CASES. E.g., 2/3 for "second of three cases." See CASE NOTATIONS.

#### n. A 4-digit PLU. E.g., 4321.

##### n. 1. A 5-digit STOCK NUMBER. E.g., 12345, (i.e., a six-digit STOCK NUMBER such as 012345 with it's leading zero omitted). 2. A 5-digit PLU. E.g., 94321.

###### n. A 6-digit STOCK NUMBER. E.g., 012345.

2^nd FRONT n. See EXTRA VALUE ZONE. Also SECOND FRONT.

3-Up n. A medium-large SHELF TAG that's printed three-at-once on a single sheet, and is about one-third the size of a DISPLAY SIGN.

3-Way n. 1. A fixed END-CAP structure with no BACKDROP that has full-height shelving facing in three directions. The shelving on either side is in lieu of the usual space for free-standing WINGS: "Check the 3-way at the front of aisle 1." 2. Just the full-height shelving alone on either side of such an END-CAP: "Kill the spaghetti 3-Way and put up pickles."

A

Aisle Stack n. PRODUCT or CASES of PRODUCT STACKED free-standing in the aisle, typically placed on a diagonal in front of it's usual SPOT on the SHELF with a GOOSE-NECK SIGN HOLDER. —v. To make such a STACK.

NOTE: Grocery may occasionally have Aisle Stacks and other DISPLAYS in various other DEPARTMENTS; for instance, garbanzo beans in Produce near salad greens, stuffing mixes in Meats, and so on.

Alarm n. 1. A device for producing an audible and/or visible signal that something is potentially amiss: Did you reset the door alarms? 2. The signal produced by such a device. See ARMED.

NOTE: Naturally, any alarm that sounds needs to be immediately investigated. For instanced, there's certainly the potential of the usual fire alarms in case of fire, but there are also freezer alarms in case of problems maintaining proper freezer temperatures, and perimeter door alarms to signal unauthorized entry or exit, or to signal unauthorized use of devices like trash compactors, etc. Always alert the appropriate DEPARTMENT MANAGER and/or M.O.D. to what's going on right away and follow their instructions.

Armed adj. A perimeter door or device ALARM in it's on or enabled state. That is, the ALARM is set to shriek both locally and at the main panel in the control room if any attempt is made to open the associated door or access panel without using the KEY—on the ALARM first, and then on the door: Don't open that—it's still armed. See ALARM.

NOTE: Door ALARMS show no visible lights or other indicators when Armed, because Armed is their normal state—the way they're supposed to be. However, a small red light beside the ALARM'S activation KEY slot turns on when the ALARM is dis-armed, or turned off.

Now, at first it may seem backward that a red light means go, as in, it's safe to go through this door, and no light at all means stop—don't—at least until you pause to consider whom that little red light is warning about what.

In this case, Who is whomever is responsible for the door—which certainly includes you. However, that responsibility primarily falls on the DEPARTMENT MANAGER and/or the M.O.D. What is the risk of uninvited guests and/or theft or SHRINK.

So a red light really still means Stop! but the rest of the sentence is, ...Don't forget to turn this ALARM back on again!

Asset Tracking Worksheet n. An unofficial BILL OF LADING worksheet; i.e., the paper form on one of the clipboards in RECEIVING where you write down anything and everything—such as BALES, PALLETS, MILK CRATES, etc.—that you've put onto the TRUCK. Also SHEET: Don't forget to put that on the sheet!

Associate n. A nice way of saying, any employee who is not a manager.

B

B n. See B-ITEM, below.

B-Item n. An ITEM that's slated to soon be DISCONTINUED. You can easily recognize them because PRICE CONTROL overwrites their SHELF TAGS with a bold letter B.

NOTE: Whenever you encounter a B-ITEM, first fill the SHELF. Then, with your MARKER put a large B on the CASE of whatever's left over and leave it on the designated shelf in the RACK back by the GATE in RECEIVING.

B1G1 adj. See BOGO.

Back adj. See BOTTOM.

Backdrop n. See SHADOWBOX.

Back Room n. A DEPARTMENT'S storage, preparation and staging area that is off-limits to the public. However, by agreement with the RECEIVER or DEPARTMENT MANAGER certain VENDORS may also be granted relatively free access.

Back-Stock n. Excess on-hand INVENTORY of REGULAR-PRICED ITEMS. —v. To put an ITEM into such on-hand INVENTORY. Also, OVERSTOCK. See also GUN, INVENTORY, NEGATIVE ORDER WORKSHEET.

Badge Number n. A 6-digit number on the back side of the badge or name tag you're given upon being hired. The first 3 digits are the STORE NUMBER, and the last 3 are your EMPLOYEE NUMBER.

NOTE: At the TIME CLOCK you CLOCK IN/OUT and PUNCH for all breaks and meals, etc. using the entire 6-digit Badge Number.

Bale n. A great quantity of CARDBOARD that has been compressed into a large and heavy brick about the size of a side-by-side washer dryer set, and which is held together by multiple stands of iron BALE WIRE: It's time to tie a bale. See also, MAKE A BALE.

NOTE: When the GATE is open, BALES go onto the TRUCK. Otherwise, they're parked short-end forward in front of the GATE, to await arrival of the KEY.

Successive BALES should always go onto the TRUCK on alternate sides, to help balance the trailer. And don't forget: along with their supporting PALLETS, Bales should always be recorded on the SHEET kept at the RECEIVER'S desk.

Baler n. A large power-driven compactor into which waste CARDBOARD is put and periodically compressed to MAKE A BALE.

Bale Wire n. Long, thin yet strong iron wire strands with a loop on one end, used to help MAKE A BALE.

Banana Box n. A heavy-duty, standard-sized BOX or carton with air holes and a tight-fitting lid that's used for shipping bananas.

NOTE: And once empty of bananas, also used for many other purposes, such as BOXING UP ITEMS too large for MILK CRATES, or by the RECEIVER during RECOVERY.

Bar Code n. The striped UPC code on a PRODUCT LABEL or SHELF TAG.

Base-Cut v. To make a very shallow cut around three sides of a plastic-wrapped CASE containing a CARDBOARD TRAY, in order to allow the outer covering to be peeled back out of the way and eventually removed. —n. Any such cut. See also BOX CUTTER, H-CUT, LIFT-CUT, SHARK-CUT, STACK-CUT, TAPE-CUT, TOP-CUT, TRAY-CUT, WINDOW-CUT, X-CUT.

NOTE: Candidates? Cases containing jars of spaghetti sauce, jars of baby food, cans of cat or dog food, and so on.

Ordinarily, you first would make an H-CUT, extract a single can or jar out the top of the still-intact case, and only make a Base-Cut once you're fairly sure the entire CASE will GO.

However, when THROWING LOAD, except for SPECIALS, the presumption is it will all GO, so you'd often employ the Base-Cut's many-at-once variation: a STACK-CUT.

Basket n. 1. A small, hand-held SHOPPING BASKET. 2. Occasionally, may also mean a regular, full-sized SHOPPING CART, with wheels.

Bay n. The area under or within a large floor-to-ceiling storage RACK, between its supporting pillars.

Belt Clip n. A small device affixed to a belt which is used to hold and keep a BOX CUTTER readily available when not in immediate use. See also HOLSTER. Contrast HUNT.

Bill of Lading n. A WAYBILL. The official document detailing the contents of the TRUCK.

Black RACK n. Low, wide wire racks with two back-tilted shelves that are typically used to DISPLAY modest quantities of PRODUCT in front of FAST-WALL or EVZ DISPLAYS.

BLACK RACK Clip n. A special variant of a SHELF CLIP that has a curved hook that slips snuggly over the rod running along the front edge of the shelves on a BLACK RACK, and is used to hold 3-UPs. See SHELF CLIP.

Block v. 1. To make PRODUCT on the SHELF more visually appealing by pulling several ranks forward to the front edge. 2. To do so for whole aisles, or the entire STORE. Typically done by NIGHT CREW after they've finished THROWING LOAD. OK. It's time to start blocking.

Blue Juice n. A trigger spray bottle of blue-colored window-cleaning solution, used in various ways for light-duty cleaning. See also CLEAN-UP. Compare RED JUICE, SPITFIRE^®.

Board n. Short for CARDBOARD.

BOGO adj. Buy One, Get One (Free), meaning a sale where you get two of the same ITEM for the REGULAR PRICE of one. Also B1G1.

NOTE: BOGO items are not half price. If you only buy one, you still pay full price.

TRUE STORY: It's embarrassing, but I've done it. I once picked up only one unit of a BOGO item that was on sale two-for-one. At first I didn't think I needed that much, so why take two? Checkout proceeded normally. After all, it's not against the rules to bypass an opportunity. Halfway home a little light in my head sputtered back on. D'oh! I said, as I smacked my forehead and drove back. I took my receipt to the CUSTOMER SERVICE DESK where the nice lady behind the counter smiled and then gave me permission to go and pick up the second unit that I'd actually already paid for.

Bonus Card n. A plastic card or key chain tag used by CUSTOMERS to obtain on-sale discounts at the checkout registers, and which also provides the STORE with information on their shopping habits. See also STORE CARD.

Bonus Points n. CUSTOMER loyalty program points that are accrued by using a BONUS CARD.

Bottle Run n. The task of taking rolling bins and/or barrels of redeemed deposit bottles and flattened cans from temporary storage at their drop point at the CUSTOMER SERVICE DESK to recycling dumpsters outside the rear of the STORE. Usually done by CART BOYS.

Bottom n. The end of an aisle farthest from the checkout registers: It's at the bottom of aisle 13. Also, BACK; versus TOP or FRONT.

Box n. 1. A CARDBOARD CASE. 2. The CARDBOARD packaging of a single ITEM. —v. To put into Boxes. See BOX UP.

Box Cutter n. A special utility knife for STOCK CLERKS that's a required and indispensable tool for opening BOXES or other packaging. The standard-issue version comes in both right-handed models, and has a preset stop at the appropriate depth for opening many CARDBOARD CASES without (usually—be careful!) damaging the contents. A compartment in the handle can hold extra blades, which are sharp, double-ended trapezoids. See also BASE-CUT, H-CUT, LIFT-CUT, SHARK-CUT, STACK-CUT, TAPE-CUT, TOP-CUT, TRAY-CUT, WINDOW-CUT, X-CUT.

NOTE: Non-standard all-metal push-up style Box Cutters that use regular, rectangular single-edge razor blades are against STORE policy, as they are less safe and by improper use are also far more likely to create accidental STORE DAMAGE.

Box Up v. To put loose quantities of PRODUCT (e.g., such as previously put into SHOPPING CARTS or left on RUNNERS after KILLING a DISPLAY) into MILK CRATES, BANANA BOXES, or other containers, usually as a preamble to putting it into BACK-STOCK.

Brand n. 1. An identification between a product or service, its manufacturer or provider, and an associated perception or value in the mind of the CUSTOMER: I'm sorry, Ma'am. We don't happen to carry that brand. 2. A logo, trademark of other means of promoting such an identification or association. See also STORE BRAND.

NOTE: Branding, and the building up of what's called Brand equity is a multi-billion dollar industry, involving marketing, advertising, PRODUCT placement, positioning, and so on.

For example, when you think of a facial tissue, you probably think Kleenex^®, and when you think photocopier, you probably think Xerox^®. Those are Brands.

TRUE STORY: Kleenex^® and Xerox^®, among others, are in fact such powerful national brands that the companies that own them pay big bucks to put ads in Writer's Digest and similar magazines to plead with writers not to use their Brand names as generic words. If a Brand name ever becomes generic, anyone can use the word, and the owner looses both a huge marketing advantage and a huge financial investment. For example, did you know that zipper was once a Brand name owned by B.F. Goodrich? Not anymore!

For more information on lost Brand names and trademarks, see, e.g.,
^{http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_generic_and_genericized_trademarks}

Break n. 15 minutes of time off to rest and relax. Two Breaks allowed per 8-hour SHIFT: I'm going on break.

NOTE: NIGHT CREW typically takes their Break all together at the same time, whenever the CREW CHIEF calls it on the PA.

DAY CREW generally take Breaks individually, to allow one another to COVER incoming calls, cashier PAGES for PRICE CHECKS, CUSTOMER questions, etc.

Break Down v. 1. To flatten, as CARDBOARD BOXES: Break it down so more fits in your basket. 2. To take the nightly LOAD as off-loaded from the TRUCK on PALLETS and redistribute it by CASES onto appropriate RUNNERS for the NIGHT CREW to THROW onto SHELVES by aisle. Usually performed by NIGHT CREW FOREMAN or CREW CHIEF before NIGHT CREW arrives. —n. The task of Breaking Down LOAD: Who's doing break-down?

NOTE: To break your BOXES down or not, that is the question. It takes time to do, but gives you more working space on your RUNNER and may save time because you make fewer trips to the BALER.

If you have a RUNNER with a lot of LOAD to THROW, take along a SHOPPING CART, break down your BOARD, and toss it into the CART. It'll help keep you from going crazy. Same plan generally goes for Dairy/Frozen work, which is farther from the CRUSHER, has small CASES, and high TURNOVER.

If your WORKING SPECIALS RUNNERS, it's a judgment call. You'll seldom need a SHOPPING CART. If you do need room, you can usually just break down the BOARD and stuff it filing cabinet-wise between a heavy BOX and the handle on the end of your RUNNER.

However, if space is not an issue, you often won't need to. Just set the whole BOX aside and later toss it in whole, open-side-down, and let the CRUSHER do it's thing.

Break Room n. Where the TIME CLOCK is, and where EMPLOYEE lockers and coat racks are located, along with tables, vending machines and entrances to the EMPLOYEE rest rooms.

Broom n. 1. A long, angled-handle, wide-swath cleaning implement with bristles. A push broom. 2. A straight, medium-handled cleaning implement with bristles, or broom, paired with a DUSTPAN. See CLEAN-UP.

Bucket n. A janitorial set comprised of a MOP and wheeled Bucket with a compression wringer insert: Get a bucket and clean up that spill in aisle 6. See CLEAN-UP.

NOTE: Whenever the FLOOR is wet or damp, always warn CUSTOMERS verbally, e.g., Watch out—the floor may be slippery, and set a caution CONE in place before proceeding with CLEAN-UP.

Bulk n. Loose ITEMS DISPLAYED in barrels or bins and typically sold by weight; e.g., birdseed, candies, rolled oats, etc.

Bulk Foods n. The DEPARTMENT that sells BULK ITEMS.

Butcher Block n. The Meat DEPARTMENT.

C

Cage n. A usually locked area in the BACK ROOM where the CLEANING CREW keeps their CLEANING MACHINE, MOPS and BUCKETS, etc.

Can-Race n. A gravity-fed SHELF insert with a storage bin and rails that serves as an automatic BLOCKING device by keeping PRODUCT rolled forward, up to the front, or SHELF FACE. Typically used for condensed soups, etc. Compare SPRING-TRAY.

Captain's Choice n. The Seafood DEPARTMENT.

NOTE: In some instances Seafood may be managed as a division of the Meat DEPARTMENT.

Cardboard n. Various sizes and thicknesses of stiff paper packaging in the form of BOXES, trays, flat sheets or folded SHIPPERS, etc. —v. To remove empty and/or nearly empty Cardboard trays or other packaging from one or more DISPLAYS, before also tidying up and BLOCKING: Cardboard the front.

NOTE: When you Cardboard the series of FAST-WALL DISPLAYS in the FRONT, take a SHOPPING CART. There's typically lots of Cardboard to remove, especially if you get in behind the DISPLAYS to remove what's been simply shoved overboard, either by CUSTOMERS or someone else in a hurry just to do a fast BLOCK.

Carry-Out n. The task of helping a CUSTOMER move a heavy or over-sized ITEM from the registers to their vehicle. Usually done by CART BOYS.

NOTE: Things like summer lawn furniture that need to be carried out on a RUNNER can occasionally bring one or more STOCK CLERKS into the picture.

Cart n. 1. See SHOPPING CART. 2. See RUNNER.

Cart Boy n. The person, male or female, tasked with returning SHOPPING CARTS from the parking LOT to the STORE'S foyer. Also does other odd jobs like CARRY-OUTS, BOTTLE RUNS, vacuuming the foyer, etc. at the discretion of the FRONT-END MANAGER.

Carts n. 1. The FRONT-END'S sub-DEPARTMENT of CART BOYS, as in the oft-heard PAGE, Someone from carts, please come to the Front-End ... 2. The SPECIALS RUNNERS, specifically, or any RUNNERS in general.

Case n. An ITEM'S standard-quantity shipping unit. Usually but not always implies an outer covering of CARDBOARD and/or plastic that protects contents during shipping, yet which is removed before the ITEM is THROWN to the SHELF.

NOTE: There's no set quantity for a Case's contents, and packaging varies widely. For example, a 35-pound bag of dry dog food may come with no outer packaging except that which the CUSTOMER purchases, yet is COUNTED as 1 Case either when THROWN or BACK-STOCKED and put in the GUN. (Same goes for 12-packs of soda pop, by the way.) Canned dog food may come 12, 24, or 48 to a Case on a CARDBOARD tray entirely shrink-wrapped in plastic. Bags of cat food may come 6 or 8 to a Case, all bagged in plastic. BOXED cat food may come 12 to a Case, enclosed in a sturdy CARDBOARD BOX. Variations are endless.

WATCH OUT: Some ITEMS—for instance, a few baby food juice assortments, etc.—may come as CUSTOMER-purchasable Cases, which you should not break open.

Other ITEMS—for instance, foil pouches of tuna—come in tray Cases, where only the retaining tapes on the bottom should be CUT, to allow the butter-dish style top to be removed before the tray gets slid into its HOLE on the SHELF.

Study all unfamiliar packaging carefully to avoid inconvenience, and so no hasty or accidental cut turns such ITEMS into STORE DAMAGE.

Case Modulus n. A fancy way of saying how many CASES it takes to fill a particular HOLE on the SHELF. See also DUMMY BOX.

NOTE: I doubt anybody actually uses this term, because I made it up. However, it's potentially useful.

I envision first a theoretical Case Modulus—which is, again, the total number of whole and partial CASES it takes to fill a particular SPOT.

However, practical concerns, such as SHELF support brackets, polls, gaps or other damage to the SHELF, the presence of DUMMY BOXES, PRODUCT orientation and so on may affect the actual value.

That value may be expressed as a rational (decimal) number or a fraction, whole, or mixed number. For instance, if half a CASE perfectly fills the HOLE, the Case Modulus is ½ or 0.5. If exactly two CASES does the trick, the value is 2. If the HOLE TAKES 3¾ CASES, the value is 3.75, and so on.

Unfortunately, my STORE'S SHELF TAGS at present only show the quantity of ITEMS per CASE. I think there'd also be value to us STOCK CLERKS in showing a SPOT'S actual Case Modulus, but hey—what do I know?

Case Notations n. Any codes or other notes that STOCK CLERKS write on PRODUCT CASES. Sometimes may be circled, enclosed in a rectangle, etc. to draw attention. See also SHELF TAG NOTATIONS.

NOTE: Examples include:

Mark	Meaning
/!\   (Caution Triangle)	WATCH OUT: CASE is broken, damaged, etc.
///	Stripes bridging multiple CASES indicate CASES have same contents
#/#	Series indicator. E.g., 2/3 stands for "second of three CASES"
######	6-digit STOCK NUMBER, e.g., 012345
?	Any question; e.g., Where does this belong?
→   (Arrow, any direction)	CAUTION: Points to open end, broken seam, etc.
B	B-ITEM (i.e., soon to be DISCONTINUED)
DISC.	DISCONTINUED ITEM
MIX	Multiple ITEMS enclosed
NEW	NEW ITEM
N.F.S.	NOT-FOR-SALE (i.e., RECALLED)
N.O.S.	NOT-ON-SHELF
O.O.D.	OUT-OF-DATE
SP/#	SPECIAL / AISLE number
X   (Large X-OUT)	Ignore LABEL printed on CASE

CHEP PALLET n. A particularly well-constructed and strong third-party PALLET that is leased for use by the STORE. Typically painted blue, sometimes red, they are STACKED separately when no longer needed and logged on the ASSET TRACKING WORKHEET as a separate entry when loaded back onto the TRUCK.

Cleaning Crew n. Third-party EMPLOYEES contracted to come in during the NIGHT SHIFT and do general housekeeping functions such as clean and polish the floors in all STORE aisles and common areas, clean all bathrooms, etc.

NOTE: Each DEPARTMENT, e.g., Grocery, Meats, Produce, Dairy, etc., routinely cleans and/or sanitizes its own working floor areas, plus cleans any grinding, cutting and/or packaging equipment, etc. as a normal part of daily CLOSING.

Cleaning Machine n. A walk-behind mini-Zamboni-style all-in-one device usually only used by the CLEANING CREW, but capable of collecting wet or dry spills and mopping and drying the FLOOR all in one step. Contrast BUCKET.

Clean-Up n. The task of cleaning up accidental spills, etc.: (Page:) Clean-up in aisle 3. —v. What you immediately do upon discovery of any breakage, spill or other mess that occurs out on the FLOOR, regardless of cause—you quickly make it go away. See also BLUE JUICE, BROOM, BUCKET, CONE, DUSTPAN, MOP, PAD, RED JUICE.

NOTE: CART BOYS and/or other STOCK CLERKS may assist, but you own—that is, are responsible for—everything that happens in your DEPARTMENT. Plus, you should also be quick to assist others who may likewise need Clean-Up help, regardless of DEPARTMENT boundaries.

Clip n. See SHELF CLIP, BLACK RACK CLIP, CLIP STRIP (below), or J-HOOK.

Clip Strip n. A movable vertically-oriented hanger that's hooked, clipped or otherwise affixed to and protrudes outward from a SHELF or layer of a DISPLAY. Styles include a rod with small attached spring clips, or a plastic strip with flexible finger tabs, or an adhesive stripe. Clip Strips can hold anything from playing cards to spatulas to trial sized bags of cat food or you-name-it.

NOTE: Most Clip Strips are taken care of by GM, although some may be DSD, or VENDOR-supplied and stocked. Only rarely are they a GROCERY ITEM, as, say, by DISTRIBUTION.

Clip Strips are a daily concern, however—as an annoying nuisance or obstacle when you're trying to fill the SHELF! The cure? Just move them slightly to the left or right—out of your way. There's nothing sacred about the exact SPOT where they hang. Simply try not to obscure any SHELF TAGS or block the CUSTOMER'S view of other PRODUCTS.

Clock n. See TIME CLOCK.

Close v. To be the last DAY-SHIFT person in a DEPARTMENT to CLOCK OUT: Who's closing? means either which person in a particular DEPARTMENT, or, more often, which STORE MANAGER will be in charge at the end of the day. Are you closing? means will you be the (un)lucky one who has to do all the routine final cleaning, straightening up, and/or other DEPARTMENT chores.

NOTE: The GROCERY CLOSER typically has to tidy up and BLOCK at least the FRONT END (meaning both FAST-WALL and EVZ), and GET AROUND to all ENDS and WINGS (including 3-WAYS).

Closer n. The person who CLOSES. See CLOSE.

C.O.C. n. Carry Out Cafe, i.e., the Deli DEPARTMENT.

Code n. 1. See STORE CODE. 2. See CASE NOTATIONS.

Code (###) n. A PA announcement of Code followed by the STORE NUMBER is an urgent call to come to the FRONT-END to witness an alleged SHOPLIFTER in flight.

NOTE: Such Code (###) calls are more typically heard overnight, when staff are few and the STORE is virtually empty. Stay alert. Thieves can be, and often are armed and dangerous.

Do not try to apprehend anyone by yourself. Leave that to security or law enforcement officers.

If possible, just do your best to get a good look at the person or persons involved, and write down their license plate number.

Code-G n. 1. An unobtrusive way of saying GARBAGE without offending CUSTOMERS: Call a Code-G. 2. To announce over the PA that the STORE'S (usually locked) GARBAGE chute is now open: Attention all departments: Code-G is now available. See also GARBAGE COMPACTOR.

COM n. See CUSTOMER OPERATIONS MANAGER.

Condition v. See BLOCK.

Cone n. A brightly-colored rigid plastic or collapsible pop-up fabric pyramid that alerts CUSTOMERS to the hazard of a wet or damp floor. Used to warn of a spill both before and after CLEAN-UP.

Count n. The tally of the total number of CASES THROWN by each MAN on NIGHT CREW: How's your count?

NOTE: High Count is good; low Count, bad—right? Well, it's not that simple. Your Count depends in part on what you're THROWING.

Consider: if it's CASES of soda pop, your Count ratchets up fast, because every time you plonk another one down, Ka-ching! One more gets added to your Count.

However, if it's cat food or BOXED gelatin, your Count suffers, because things like that are small. Also, their HOLES on the SHELF are narrow, deep and closely packed. Plus, for some ITEMS you may have to do something such as smush each plastic package of brown sugar to flatten it, or otherwise manipulate and/or orient each individual unit.

So, while a CREW CHIEF may try to even things out by the judicious choice of which PALLETS and RUNNERS of LOAD he assigns, Count remains only the very roughest measure of productivity.

Thing is—it's easy, and there's nothing else much better.

Coupon n. An promotional enticement to buy, in the form of a slip of paper or cut-out scrap from a magazine or newspaper which can be surrendered to a cashier upon checkout to receive a DISCOUNT on a suitably matching ITEM. See also COUPON SPITTER, below.

Coupon Spitter n. A device on a flexible mount that is immovably affixed to the edge of a SHELF and which protrudes about 6 inches (15mm) outwards into the aisle, and which has a proximity sensor sensitive to the approach of a CUSTOMER or any other object. Upon such approach, it may eject a COUPON which dangles from it as an enticement to take the COUPON. Unaccepted COUPONS may be returned to a tray on top of the device.

Most such devices are red, to draw attention. Some also have red blinking lights. Some make noises or play recorded messages. Some even have a mini-TV. See also CLIP STRIP.

NOTE: Little kids are understandably fascinated by these things, and it's no accident that they are always attached to a fairly low SHELF. The PRICE CONTROL DEPARTMENT maintains them.

CAUTION: Be careful not to whack your head on one as you get up from WORKING a HOLE beneath! The attachment's flexibility typically only goes side-to-side, to recoil from errant SHOPPING CARTS.

Cover v. 1. To respond to any and all PAGES, phone calls, CUSTOMER inquiries, etc., so another CREW member may have an uninterrupted BREAK or LUNCH: Cover for me? I'm on break. 2. To substitute of someone else on the SCHEDULE.

Crate n. 1. See MILK CRATE. 2. (Rarely) A decorative wooden, slatted BOX that serves as part of a DISPLAY. —v. To put something into CRATES: Crate that up.

Crew n. See DAY CREW, NIGHT CREW.

Crew Chief n. A foreman or senior team member who runs things in the GROCERY MANAGER'S absence; most often serves at NIGHT: The crew chief usually breaks down the load.

Crush v. To compact or compress CARDBOARD in the BALER.

Crusher n. See BALER.

CSM n. See CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER.

CSM Desk n. A small command post for the CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER, or CSM, typically located out on the FLOOR within sight of the CUSTOMER checkout lanes.

Customer n. Anyone who purchases PRODUCTS or enjoys SERVICES supplied by the STORE. Thus, potentially anyone who enters the STORE, including other EMPLOYEES!

Customer Operations Manager (COM) n. The MANAGER charged with maintaining a professional, friendly, and well-organized CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT and FRONT END. Physically, this includes the parking LOT, vestibule, service center, and all check-out lanes.

The COM handles and coordinates responses to all CUSTOMER-related issues, right down to the appearance and appropriate professional behavior of all ASSOCIATES.

They monitor all cashier-related activities and practices, both to ensure they comply with COMPANY policies, and to help minimize SHRINK. They furthermore monitor the STORE payroll to be sure it's accurate and in compliance with all COMPANY, State and Federal policies and statutes.

Customer Satisfaction n. The CUSTOMER'S appraisal that the PRODUCT or SERVICE received is of acceptable quality. See also GOODWILL.

Customer Service n. 1. The DEPARTMENT that issues RAIN CHECKS, collects can and bottle returns, handles complaints, etc. 2. The active demonstration of a friendly, helpful, and patient attitude towards the CUSTOMER, which aims to increase CUSTOMER SATISFACTION and GOODWILL by answering their questions, helping them locate ITEMS, and so on.

Customer Service Desk n. A counter at the front of the STORE staffed by the CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT for the purpose of handling CUSTOMER questions, compliments and complaints, issuing RAIN CHECKS, accepting bottle returns, issuing Money Orders, Selling Lottery Tickets, plus various and sundry other SERVICES.

Customer Service Manager n. Same as CUSTOMER OPERATIONS MANAGER. (* IS THIS TRUE ??? *)

Cut v. To make a cut, incision or trim away material using a BOX CUTTER. See also BASE-CUT, BOX CUTTER, H-CUT, LIFT-CUT, SHARK-CUT, STACK-CUT, TAPE-CUT, TOP-CUT, TRAY-CUT, WINDOW-CUT, X-CUT.

Cut In v. To create a new SPOT on the SHELF by shifting and/or condensing the space devoted to one or more other possibly related related ITEMS nearby. When SCHEDULED, it's most often done by the RESET TEAM following a PLAN-O-GRAM. However, may sometimes be at the DEPARTMENT or STORE MANAGER'S ad-hoc instruction: A bunch of new stuff was cut in. Cut this in somewhere.

NOTE: Only Cut In ITEMS if a MANAGER says so. If you do, remember to also take one of whatever it is over to PRICE CONTROL so they can SCAN it and make a SHELF TAG.

Cutter n. See BOX CUTTER.

D

Day Crew n. Anyone who works a DAY-SHIFT.

Day-Shift n. A work schedule that begins anywhere from very early morning on, and may end as late as 11:00 PM. For example, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Days n. Working a DAY-SHIFT: He's on days. Versus NIGHTS.

Department n. A subdivision within the STORE that has a common PRODUCT theme or responsibility.

NOTE: For example:

• Bakery, a.k.a Baker's Oven
  
• Bulk Foods
  
• Customer Service
• Dairy/Frozen
• Deli, a.k.a The Deli and Carry Out Cafe
• Floral, a.k.a Petal Works
  
• Front-End (Cashiers and Cart Boys)
• General Merchandise (a.k.a. GM)
• Grocery
• Meat, a.k.a Butcher's Block (may include Sea Food)
• Pharmacy
• Price Control
• Produce, a.k.a Garden Fresh Produce
  
• Receiving
• Sea Food, a.k.a Captain's Choice (may be included in Meat)
• Security
  

Department Manager n. The person in charge of running a DEPARTMENT by ordering PRODUCTS and SUPPLIES, managing INVENTORY, SCHEDULING EMPLOYEES, etc.

Directory n. See STORE DIRECTORY or PHONE LIST.

Disc. n. See DISCONTINUED, below.

Discontinued n. An ITEM that will no longer be sold once on-hand supplies are depleted.

NOTE: Discontinued ITEMS are easily identified by their SHELF TAG, which clearly says "Discontinued." When you encounter one, fill the SHELF, then, if there's any left over, take your MARKER and write a large DISC. (for Discontinued) on the CASE. The remainder goes with any other DISCONTINUED ITEMS on the RACK in RECEIVING.

Occasionally, you'll be standing in the aisle holding something for which you can't find a HOLE on the SHELF. Is it NEW, or Discontinued?

Don't guess. Always ask the GROCERY MANAGER, if present. At his instruction (only), you may receive permission to DISC. it, as above. But, you can't Discontinue an ITEM yourself, just because you can't find it!

So, as appropriate, either write New on the un-found ITEM'S CASE, if you know for sure its a NEW ITEM, or, as a last resort, write N.O.S. for NOT-ON-SHELF. Both N.O.S. and NEW designations go into the NEW ITEMS RACK in the BACK ROOM, and someone else (e.g., the GROCERY MANAGER) will eventually sort out what should be done with them.

Discount n. The amount a PRICE is reduced because it's ON SALE, DISCONTINUED, etc.

Discount TAG n. 1. A special yellow TAG that overlays a PRODUCT'S usual UPC code, so that the special DISCOUNT PRICE rings up at the checkout registers. Typically used for ITEMS on the MARK DOWN RACK. 2. A SHELF TAG that shows a reduced PRICE because the ITEM is ON SALE, DISCONTINUED, etc.

Display n. A prominent arrangement of a single PRODUCT or PRODUCT LINE, intended to attract the CUSTOMER'S attention and encourage purchase, typically accompanied by an ON SALE or DISCOUNTED price, BOGO, or other incentive detailed in the SIGN or SHELF TAG. Examples include 3-WAY, AISLE STACK, END-CAP, EVZ, FAST-WALL, SHIPPER, and WING. —v. To show in a noticeable way.

Display Sign n. The largest sized TAG, about half the size of a sheet of paper, and which fits into the frames of both DUCK-FOOT and GOOSE-NECK SIGN HOLDERS. Often shortened to just Sign: Get a sign for that.

Distribution n. A quantity of PRODUCT received with the usual LOAD, but which was not specifically ordered. Rather, it is something that the central office apportions among all STORE branches and requires each STORE to put on DISPLAY and sell. Compare MISPICK.

Dock n. See LOADING DOCK.

Drop v. To gently lower or set down, albeit expressed with dramatic exaggeration: Drop that pallet under the mezz.

NOTE:

If you take a PALLET out onto the FLOOR, you should always immediately Drop it as soon as you arrive wherever you're going. Dropping it avoids trouble. Plus, it is an OSHA requirement.

Don't leave a PALLET jacked up, or the STORE may be liable for any CUSTOMER injury. For instance: suppose and a kid walks by, pulls the Drop release lever and causes your full PALLET to land on a sibling's toe. Bad.

DSD n. Direct Store Delivery, as coded on SHELF TAGS. That is, it's the VENDOR, and not STOCK CLERKS, who (usually) puts that ITEM on the SHELF.

Duck-Foot n. The shortest SIGN HOLDER, which has no stem, but just a white frame and a base with a triangular tab that slides under a STACK of PRODUCT: You'll need a duck-foot sign holder. Compare GOOSE-NECK.

NOTE: Typically used under the bottom layer of a DISPLAY on a WING BASE. Also at the bottom of an END-CAP, FAST-WALL or EVZ DISPLAY. The Duck-Foot gets a copy of the same SIGN DISPLAYED in the GOOSE-NECK that's inserted above, at the base of the BACKDROP. AISLE STACKS do not get a Duck-Foot; instead, they always TAKE a regular, GOOSE-NECK SIGN HOLDER.

Dummy Box n. A long CARDBOARD BOX, usually plain white. They are RECEIVED as a SUPPLY in as a shrink-wrapped stack of flat cutouts. When assembled by folding, each one forms a rectangular prism that is used as a filler or spacer in the back of a SHELF'S HOLE to make it shallower.

NOTE: The basic idea is to change the CASE MODULUS of the HOLE, by cutting down the number of CASES or additional partial CASES needed to fill it.

Dummy Boxes save the STORE money because they provide a simple, fool-proof way to avoid THROWING too much INVENTORY to the SHELF.

Multiple Dummy Boxes may be STACKED vertically to provide a more even back-wall surface, and/or horizontally to further reduce the depth of the HOLE. Whether or not they're STACKED vertically often depends on the size, shape and/or weight of the ITEM that goes in that particular SPOT. Sometimes—especially on the top SHELF—they may be intentionally not STACKED vertically, in order to provide a buffer area for stashing a slight excess of one, two, or a few extra. Be careful, though. They're not capable of supporting much weight, so pilling on pickle jars is a no-no.

TRUE STORY: If you're new, you might be tempted to remove one of these things the first time you find one. I did. Then it was explained to me: they're supposed to be there. Talk about feeling like a dummy!

Dummy Up v. To create a DISPLAY that appears to be SOLID, but uses far less PRODUCT by virtue of a false front and interior supports. Supports may be widely-spaced columns comprised of PRODUCT cans or BOXES, or empty PRODUCT CASES set between intervening layers of GLASS: Hollow out the detergent and dummy it up.

Dustpan n. An open-ended pivoting receptacle with a medium handle into which dust and debris may be swept using a BROOM. See CLEAN-UP.

E

Employee n. Anyone hired by the STORE to do WORK, such as perform a SERVICE.

Employee Number n. See BADGE NUMBER.

End n. See END-CAP.

End-Cap n. A DISPLAY area at the end of an aisle, which faces perpendicular to the lane of usual aisle SHELVING on either side. Usually features one or more SALE ITEMS. Construction may be a movable base (akin to but much larger than a WING BASE) upon which PRODUCT is STACKED, together with a SHADOW BOX, or else it may be a full-height SHELVING unit that is typically part of a 3-WAY, with additional SPECIALS DISPLAYED on full-height SHELVES on either side in the built-in WINGS.

Evil-Stock-Dude n. The imaginary person responsible for any un-attributable mistakes or bone-headed errors. A mythical scapegoat.

NOTE: Traditionally, NIGHT CREW blames DAY CREW, and vice versa, for anything they find wrong.

Blaming someone else is human nature, and a tradition that goes way, way back (read the first book in the Bible, Genesis, Chapter 3). Thus, I propose this fantasy to fulfill that particular need.

Spot a problem? Blame Evil-Stock-Dude. Then, just fix it yourself, and move on.

EVZ n. See EXTRA VALUE ZONE.

Expiration Date n. An ordinary date stamped or printed on an ITEM by the manufacturer. It sets a manufacturer-determined time limit on how long the PRODUCT is considered good.

NOTE: Whenever a CUSTOMER brings you an OUT-OF-DATE ITEM, immediately apologize on behalf of the STORE, say Thanks for your help, and then alert the GROCERY MANAGER to the situation. Baring other instructions, remove the O.O.D. STOCK from the SHELF and take it to the RECEIVER'S RACK before going back to your previous task.

Expired adj. An ITEM that is past its printed EXPIRATION DATE. See OUT-OF-DATE.

Extra-Value Zone n. A series of END-CAP-like DISPLAYS that include SHADOW BOXES and are arranged in a continuous row just past the CUSTOMER SERVICE DESK. Every SPOT therein features only STORE BRAND PRODUCTS that are ON SALE. Also 2^nd FRONT, EVZ, SECOND FRONT.

F

Face n. As defined by the RESET TEAM'S PLAN-O-GRAM, the front-most rank of packages of any single PRODUCT, oriented side-by-side on the SHELF and extending for the full width of the ITEM'S given HOLE: This should be a 3-Face. —v. See BLOCK: Face it off.

NOTE: If ever in doubt, the Face count is printed on every ITEM'S SHELF TAG.

The smallest is a 1-Face, for ITEMS arranged with one in front and the rest straight behind it in a single file. Such 1-Faces are no particular problem for bigger ITEMS like, say, cake mixes. However, when it comes to small things like tiny cans of cat food or feather-light BOXES of flavored gelatin, oh, baby! A 1-Face can really test your patience.

What to do? One good survival tip, when things are really tight, is to take a neighboring ITEM out—temporarily—before you try to put your ITEM in. This can make an impossibly small HOLE at least big enough for you to fit in your hand and arm, should you need to, say, dig into the back to right and STACK PRODUCT that's tipped over. Once you've got things back under control, you can then slide any neighboring ITEM(S) you removed earlier back into their proper position(s).

Fast-Wall n. A long, contiguous series of featured SALES DISPLAYS that include BACKDROPS at the very front of the STORE, just inside the main entrance. VENDORS pay a fee to the STORE for SLOTS in this special, See me first area.

Float n. See RUNNER.

Floor n. See SALES FLOOR: Don't take power jacks out onto the floor.

Front n. 1. The FAST-WALL and EVZ: Remember to block the front. 2. The end of any aisle closest to the checkout registers: That's on the left at the front of aisle 3. Also TOP. 3. See FACE.

Front-End n. 1. The DEPARTMENT and/or MANAGER responsible for all checkout cashiers: Who's on front-end today? 2. See FRONT1. 3. The side of the STORE closest to the front entrance.

G

G n. Garbage. See CODE-G, GARBAGE COMPACTOR.

Gang-Lift v. To lift multiple ITEMS at once—as from a CASE—by using two hands to squeeze the first and last ITEM towards one another, so that intervening ITEMS are held in place by friction, and all may be moved together as a single unit: Gang-lift Cheerios to throw half a case at once —n. Any lift so made.

NOTE: The beauty of a Gang-Lift is it's fast. Two grabs may be all it takes to empty an entire CASE. Squeeze down low, as contents tend to settle. Thus, the bottoms of BOXES are generally firmer than the tops. If a CASE is tight, and you're sure all of it will GO, rip open the CASE'S corner to create enough space to slide your hands in down opposite sides.

Candidates? General Mills breakfast cereals are CASED on trays with a banded covers specifically to enable such rapid handling. Then there's, elbow macaroni, boxed macaroni and cheese, dog biscuits, and so on.

Cautions: Be gentle—don't squish, bend or disfigure anything! Also, watch out for slippery ITEMS that may squirt out like playing cards out of a bad shuffle, forcing you to play 52 Pick-Up with the whole bunch. Better to reduce the number of units you lift at once.

Garbage n. See CODE-G, GARBAGE COMPACTOR.

Garbage Compactor n. A usually locked chute down which DEPARTMENTS may toss their garbage whenever the M.O.D. unlocks it and calls a CODE-G.

NOTE:

The compactor is kept locked to minimize SHRINK, which may include the accidental or intentional dumping of viable PRODUCT.

There are stories of rogue NIGHT CREWS (always at some other STORE, of course) who would occasionally trash portions of LOAD rather than take the time to THROW it. Urban legend? You decide.

Gate n. Any of the roll-up tambour-style metal portcullis doors in the RECEIVING DEPARTMENT, which, when unlocked and opened via its hanging looped chain mechanism, provide via an adjustable cross-over plate approximately level walk-in access to the trailers brought by the TRUCK. The normal state of the Gate is closed and ARMED.

General Merchandise n. The DEPARTMENT that deals with inedible non-perishables such as toothbrushes, shampoos, makeup, toys, CLIP STRIPS of ITEMS hanging from SHELVES around the STORE, and so on. Also simply GM.

Get Around v. In general, to make a complete circuit of either the entire STORE, or your DEPARTMENT'S area of responsibility. Specifically, to tidy up and BLOCK those areas: Be sure to get around. (E.g., at the end of your shift.) See also, WALK THE STORE.

Gift Card n. A plastic, limited-use debit card issued by the STORE for certain fixed amounts and which may be purchased by anyone from the CUSTOMER SERVICE DESK. Once activated, Gift Cards may subsequently be used at any branch of the STORE to pay for purchase amounts up to the face value of the card, either all at once, or incrementally on several occasions.

NOTE: In some circumstances a Gift Card may be awarded by STORE management. For instance, at present, as part of a STORE loyalty incentive program, a Gift Card worth $25 is awarded weekly to the winner of a random receipt drawing among ASSOCIATES who enter their checkout register tapes showing current purchases of $50 or more using their personal BONUS CARD. I've won it a few times. It's nice!

Also, a few other times I've been awarded a $5 Gift Card by a Front-End Manager as a small token of appreciation for helping out in ways above and beyond the call of my usual duties. Again, very nice!

For more about Gift Cards, see:
^{http://www.topsmarkets.com/shareddev/sharedcontent/Giftcards/aboutgiftcards.cfm}

Glass n. From PLEXIGLASS. Thick, slightly flexible plastic sheets are pre-cut to size, some with two rounded corners, for use in DISPLAYS, where they are laid horizontally to separate and support STACKED layers of PRODUCT. Also, PLEXI.

Glider n. See RUNNER.

GM n. See GENERAL MERCHANDISE: (Page:) Someone from GM please call extension 300.

Go v. When the entire contents one or more full or partially-full CASES completely fits in the available space or SPOT on the SHELF: It'll go, or sometimes Make it go. See also HIDE, JAM, LAY-IN, MAKE IT GO.

Goodwill n. A CUSTOMER'S desire to return to a place of business where they have been well served. Customer goodwill keeps us in business!

Goose-Neck n. A SIGN HOLDER whose frame is elevated on a long, either fixed-length or adjustable support. See also DUCK-FOOT.

Grocery n. 1. You know: a STORE where you can buy food and stuff. 2. The NON-PERISHABLES DEPARTMENT: (Page) Someone from Grocery please take the call holding on 801.

NOTE: Up until a hundred years or so ago, a Grocery was a tavern, or place to procure liquor! Wow—our INVENTORY sure has changed!

Grocery Manager n. The immediate boss of STOCK CLERKS, including all those on both DAY-SHIFT and NIGHT CREW. The Grocery Manager gives instructions, handles PRODUCT ordering using the GUN, interacts with VENDORS, manages INVENTORY, directs the building of DISPLAYS, etc.

Gun n. A special hand-held BARCODE SCANNER that is Wi-Fi connected to the STORE'S computer, and which can be used to obtain PRICING, INVENTORY, or other PRODUCT information, or to place orders for PRODUCTS, update INVENTORY counts, etc. Typically used by DEPARTMENT or STORE MANAGERS. See also BACK-STOCK, INVENTORY, NEGATIVE ORDER WORKSHEET, OVERSTOCK: Put that in the gun.

NOTE: There are some things you just can't say over the STORE'S PA. Like Garbage—we call it CODE-G, remember?

Well another no-no would be Gun, as in, Price Control, please bring a Gun to aisle 5. Now, stop and think. How does that sounds to CUSTOMER ears? A GUN?

Funny? Not if someone drops dead of a heart attack. Better call it something else. For example, Price Control, please bring a hand-held stock Scanner to aisle 5.