Drakes Supermarket reviews — what working there is like

Drakes Supermarkets is a family-owned SA/QLD independent supermarket chain. Here's what employees say. For application details, see our Drakes Supermarket job application guide.

Overall Experience

Drakes employees frequently describe a more personal, family-oriented culture than major chain supermarkets. The independent ownership means local store managers have more authority and accountability, which translates to better relationships between staff and management at well-run stores. Pay conditions are broadly comparable to major chains under the Retail Award, with reliable penalty rates applying for weekend and public holiday work. Fresh department staff — particularly qualified butchers — describe Drakes as a strong employer in that specialisation.

What Employees Value

The community feel at individual stores, particularly in regional SA locations, is consistently cited. Managers who have been with the company long-term create stable, familiar team environments. Staff discounts on groceries are a practical and appreciated benefit. The reliability of Award-based penalty rates for weekend and public holiday work is valued by casual staff who structure their earnings around high-penalty shifts.

What Employees Find Challenging

Night fill and early morning rostering can be physically demanding. Some stores describe understaffing during peak periods as a challenge. Career progression pathways within an independent chain are more limited than at national retailers with formal development programs, though supervisory and management roles do exist for ambitious employees.