Birkenhead checkout operator Katasha McCullough has been crowned the North Shore's top Foodstuffs supermarket checkout operator after winning the regional finals at Westlake Boys High School Auditorium.
More than 140 checkout operators from local New World, PAK'nSAVE, Four Square and Gilmours pitted their frontline customer service skills against one another in
a competitive checkout battle in front of a live audience.
The event turned their everyday duties of scanning groceries and providing excellent customer service into a fiercely competitive sport.
The checker of the year competition combines a test of skill with a demonstration of superb customer service. At the same time, generating support for our frontline staff who play a huge part in keeping our customers happy and returning each week to enjoy their shopping experience.
Sheridan Tuiavii also of New World Birkenhead ran a close second to claim the runner up position. The team award also went to New World Birkenhead with Shakila Ranathunga, Gaurav Kaushal, Sheridan Tuiavii and Zainab Ewazi achieving the highest combined score on the night.
The competitors use their everyday skills to do battle, scanning of over 30 items in under a strict time limit while maintaining a high level of customer service in front of a live audience of fans and supporters.
Under the eagle eyes of the judges smooth operators from around the North Shore scanned groceries through checkout counters mounted on a theatre stage. Contestants were assessed on their presentation, customer service, speed and their ability to correctly count back change.
Katasha McCullough and Sheridan Tuiavii will now vie for Foodstuffs Auckland's Checker of the Year title against finalists from around the upper North Island at the competition's grand final in Auckland on November 13.
