Retail/Tasting Room Associate in Lexington, North Carolina at Childress Vineyards

The Tasting Room & Gift Shop at Childress Vineyards is seeking a polished, professional, and guest-focused Retail & Tasting Room Associate. This dual-role position supports both wine service and retail operations, playing a key role in delivering a seamless, elevated experience—from welcoming guests to assisting with merchandise and gift selections.

Retail Associate
The Retail associate supports the Retail Merchandiser in executing merchandising strategies, maintaining inventory accuracy, and producing high-quality gift baskets and retail displays. This role is primarily operational and behind-the-scenes, ensuring the retail space is fully stocked, visually appealing, and aligned with brand standards.

Key Responsibilities
-Inventory & Stock Management
-Restock shelves and maintain appropriate inventory levels
-Conduct inventory counts and report discrepancies
-Monitor stock levels and communicate needs to the Merchandiser
-Receive, unpack, and organize incoming shipments
-Remove damaged or unsellable products
-Merchandising & Displays
-Execute product displays, seasonal layouts, and promotions as directed
-Maintain clean, organized, and visually appealing displays
-Implement pricing updates, signage, and product rotation

Gift Basket Production
-Assemble gift baskets and specialty packages according to brand standards
-Maintain inventory of basket materials and supplies
-Support bulk, corporate, and high-volume seasonal orders
-Ensure all baskets are accurate, consistent, and presentation-ready
-Operational Support
-Prepare products for floor placement and merchandising
-Maintain backstock organization and storage areas
-Keep retail areas clean, stocked, and guest-ready

Gift Basket Assistance
-Assemble or customize gift baskets for guests as needed
-Ensure presentation meets brand standards
-Support sales of pre-made and custom gift options

Guest Experience & Sales
-Provide a warm, welcoming, and knowledgeable experience to all guests
-Lead or assist with wine tastings and product education
-Recommend wines, retail items, and gift options based on guest preferences
-Accurately process transactions using the POS system

Retail & Gift Shop Support
-Maintain clean, organized, and well-stocked retail displays
-Assist guests with selecting and customizing gift baskets
-Support merchandising standards on the sales floor
-Communicate guest feedback and product trends to the Merchandiser

Tasting Room Support
-Assist team members during peak service times
-Maintain awareness of product locations and features
-Help ensure smooth flow of service in both tasting and retail areas

Qualifications
-Retail, hospitality, or winery experience preferred
-Strong communication and customer service skills
-Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
-Basic wine knowledge (or willingness to learn)
-Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to ~40 lbs
-Availability on weekends, holidays, and peak seasons