About Iceland Foods Limited

Iceland are one of Britain’s most innovative retailers, with nearly 850 stores throughout the UK. The Deeside-headquartered business generates sales of more than £2.7 billion and employs more than 26,000 people.

Current Chief Executive Officer Malcolm Walker opened his first Iceland shop in Oswestry, Shropshire, in 1970, selling loose frozen food. By 1978, Iceland had 28 stores to its name.

The company has always innovated. In 1986, it became the first UK supermarket to remove artificial matter from its own-brand products and in 1990, it banned mechanically recovered meat. Recently, Iceland announced it will eradicate plastic packaging on own-brand products within five years.

Most employees see working at Iceland as being part of a family. Charity has always been key, with Malcolm Walker himself setting the lead. In 2011, aged 65, he made it to the North Col of Everest at 23,000 feet in aid of Alzheimer’s Research UK. He was knighted in 2017.

What is it like to work for Iceland Foods Limited

Leadership

71% of staff agreed:

I have confidence in the leadership skills of the senior management team

The ‘Voice of the Stores’ initiative gives every colleague direct access to the Board by email. This removes bureaucratic hurdles and ensures Directors hear exactly what colleagues are saying. After the Christmas incentive, winning store managers joined Sir Malcolm on an all-expenses paid holiday in Monaco.

71% of staff agreed:

I have confidence in the leadership skills of the senior management team

My Manager

81% of staff agreed:

I feel that my manager talks openly and honestly with me

Line managers complete annual reviews and submit them to HR. Each manager has four objectives plus a leadership objective and must demonstrate certain skills and behaviours. Performance is evaluated in one-to-one meetings and twice-yearly formal reviews.

81% of staff agreed:

I feel that my manager talks openly and honestly with me

Fair Deal

69% of staff agreed:

I am happy with the pay and benefits I receive in this job

Each employee receives a booklet during every cycle change with key information on new products and vouchers so they can try new ranges. Staff get Christmas vouchers and 10% discount which is doubled twice a year.

69% of staff agreed:

I am happy with the pay and benefits I receive in this job

Learn more about the 8 factors of workplace engagement here

Benefits:

Charity Activities

At least 20% of staff are known to undertake charitable activities during business hours without incurring financial loss
Maternity

At least 10 weeks’ full pay or generous alternative