Question 1

What is FIFO and why is it important for stock replenishers?

Accepted Answer

FIFO stands for 'First In, First Out' — a stock rotation principle where older stock is placed at the front so it sells first. This is critical in retail, especially for products with expiry dates like food and cosmetics. Stock replenishers must understand and apply FIFO procedures to minimise waste and ensure customers receive fresh products.

Question 2

What award covers stock replenishers in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Most stock replenisher positions are covered by the General Retail Industry Award 2020 (MA000004). This award applies to employees in retail establishments including supermarkets, department stores and specialty shops. Stock replenishers typically fall under Level 1-2 classifications depending on experience. See our Retail Award pay rates guide for current rates.

Question 3

What is night fill and how does it differ from day shift stock replenishment?

Accepted Answer

Night fill refers to overnight shifts (typically 10pm-6am) when stock replenishers restock shelves outside trading hours. This allows major restocking without disrupting customers. Night fill shifts often attract penalty rates under the award. Day shifts involve replenishing stock during trading hours while being mindful of customer flow and safety.

Question 4

What are the physical requirements for stock replenishers?

Accepted Answer

Stock replenishment is physically demanding. Workers regularly lift boxes (up to 15-20kg), reach high shelves, bend and kneel repeatedly, push loaded trolleys, and stand/walk for entire shifts. Good physical fitness and proper lifting technique are essential. Employers should conduct ergonomic assessments and provide manual handling training.

Question 5

What qualifications do stock replenishers need?

Accepted Answer

No formal qualifications are required for stock replenisher positions. The role is entry-level and suitable for people new to the workforce. Employers look for physical fitness, reliability, ability to follow instructions and basic literacy/numeracy. On-the-job training covers stock systems, FIFO procedures and planogram reading. Use HR software to track employee training and qualifications.

Question 6

Do stock replenishers need any certificates?

Accepted Answer

Generally, no certificates are required. Some retailers may prefer or require forklift licences (LF) or order picker licences (LO) for warehouse areas, but these aren't necessary for general shop floor replenishment. Manual handling training is typically provided during induction.

Question 7

What experience should I look for in a stock replenisher?

Accepted Answer

For entry-level positions, no prior experience is necessary. For more senior positions or night fill supervisors, look for experience with stock systems, planogram reading, FIFO procedures and team coordination. Experience in warehousing, logistics or retail stock management is valuable but not essential for starting roles.

Question 8

Can I hire stock replenishers without experience?

Accepted Answer

Yes, stock replenisher roles are designed as entry-level positions. Many retailers successfully hire and train staff without prior experience. Level 1 under the General Retail Industry Award is designed for people new to retail. Focus on physical fitness, reliability, punctuality and willingness to work early morning or overnight shifts.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent stock replenishers?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your business model. Permanent part-time or full-time staff provide consistency for regular night fill teams. Casual staff offer flexibility for seasonal demand or ad-hoc shifts. Many retailers use permanent staff for core night fill teams and casuals for peak periods like Christmas. Casual employees receive a 25% loading. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to stock replenishers?

Accepted Answer

Under the General Retail Industry Award, stock replenishers working overnight, early morning, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays are entitled to penalty rates. Night shift penalties are significant (typically 130% or higher depending on hours). Use award interpretation software to calculate night penalties accurately.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for stock replenishers?

Accepted Answer

Under the General Retail Industry Award, the minimum engagement for casual employees is 3 hours per shift. Night fill shifts are typically 6-8 hours. Part-time employees should have their regular hours agreed in writing. Ensure shift lengths provide adequate time for meaningful stock replenishment work.

Question 12

What should I include in a stock replenisher employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level (Level 1-2), employment type (casual/part-time/full-time), hourly rate including night penalties, applicable award, shift times (especially if overnight), reporting structure, physical requirements, uniform requirements and any licence requirements (e.g. forklift). Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to stock replenishers?

Accepted Answer

Under the General Retail Industry Award, rosters must be provided at least 7 days in advance. This is especially important for night fill staff who need to plan sleep schedules around overnight work. Using rostering software helps support compliance and gives staff visibility of upcoming shifts.

Question 14

Can I require stock replenishers to work night shifts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, night fill work is a core component of many stock replenisher roles. You should clearly communicate shift time requirements (e.g. overnight 10pm-6am) in the job description and during recruitment. Some businesses offer shift premiums beyond award minimums to attract night shift workers. Part-time employees should have their regular shift pattern agreed in writing.

Question 15

What breaks are stock replenishers entitled to?

Accepted Answer

Under the General Retail Industry Award, employees working more than 5 hours are entitled to an unpaid meal break of 30-60 minutes. Paid rest breaks also apply based on shift length. For physically demanding work like stock replenishment, regular breaks are important for safety and injury prevention. Use break planning tools to support compliance.

Question 16

How do I manage stock replenisher efficiency and productivity?

Accepted Answer

Set clear performance expectations around cartons per hour, planogram compliance and FIFO accuracy. Provide proper training on efficient techniques and stock systems. Use rostering software to track shift productivity and identify training needs. Regular feedback and recognition help maintain motivation for repetitive work.

Stock replenisher job description