Grocery Outlet

Having moved to Washougal in 2008, some of my favorite memories were thanks to Camas Grocery Outlet. Many times that winter, my parents would buy snacks, groceries, etc to cook up while spending time with us-​then kids. Fast forward seven years to a complete change of heart. You see, the store alone is innovative, has decent selection at a bargain price; however, there is a lot I disagree with at this store (and it doesn’t help that I briefly worked there).
First and foremost, you can say what you want about good customer service, but I can only tell you it is thanks to some amazing cashiers (Jordan, Lydia, Heidi, Ruth and Leslie). The were the most well-​mannered, helpful and gave a great vibe to the store. The kind of «friendliness» Grocery Outlet encourages their employees to have is emulated by those employees, but not very well by the others. The intended vibe of the store is why I so eagerly wanted to be a part of their team.
When I started, the first few days or so weren’t to terrible, but as my experience progressed, the attitudes from managers, the owner and some co-​workers degressed. Their demeanor towards me made me feel unwelcome, worthless and no good as an employee new to retail. They do not foster the kindness they claim to, especially the owner Greg Phillips who had the nerve to degrade any other job I had as though being a Grocery Outlet cashier is the «holy grail» of occupations. He made it clear to me that I was simply a summer employee and at any moment I could be dropped (not an overall offensive statement, but it struck a nerve considering his overall demeanor).Therefore I believe he sounds no value in me as an employee or person. On top of the owners not being too fond of me, there was a manager who always punched her hand when talking to me as though I was stupid and indigent when I felt as though I was trying my best. This was days into the job.
When they asked me to be aware of all aspects of the job, my goal was to work harder but when they say «Jump,» shooting for the moon and reaching the stars is not ok for someone who is learning. Their inability to teach and guide causes them to lack a lot of what they seek to.
When expecting someone to learn, patience is a virtue, but instead I was subject to belittling attitudes and unprofessionalism. It’s one thing for a customer to be displeased, but for the managers to be equally as rude. It makes for a very negative working experience. I am grateful I gave it all I could, but I do not feel comfortable stepping into that store. Although nothing will stop me if I need to grab something, I want people to know before applying (especially being a young adult) that there is little to no regard. Even if you suffer from something such as runner’s knee (which I do and it is reversible) there was no verbal slack despite my doctor’s note. Which I find to be ridiculous.
I am not telling you not to shop there, although they are allowed to have food on the shelves over seven days past the Sell By Date, this is a review for those interested in employment. It’s very hard to fit in if you’re not already a master cashier.

I shop at all 3 in Vancouver, Camas area. If a product is no longer at the other two, I have learned this location probably has it & lots of it. I’ve noticed they tend to get newer stuff after the other 2 locations have had it for a few weeks or have sold out already.
I come here mostly for the frozen fruit. Unlike the other locations they always have my frozen strawberries & peaches in the big bags for crazy cheap! And also all the random healthier non GMO chips & snacks for like $ 1 or $ 2. This location you have to hunt for the healthier foods, they don’t carry as much as the other two, but still have a lot of random, yummy things.
The employees here are always the nicest I have ever met. Seriously, you can go in here in a horrible mood & walk out with a smile because they are so sweet & nice.

I absolutely LOVE the Camas Grocery Outlet. It is my favorite place to grocery shop.
They have such a variety of products, at great prices, it’s always fun to go there.
If you have a shopping list for specific items, you might strike out on a few items, so I recommend going there to browse and impulse buy.
The staff is super friendly and helpful.

Store has super friendly employees and great service. It is a bargain store so they don’t always have everything you need but it’s a great place to stop and look for deals.