Safeway Liquor - Auburn

This store is spacious and well-stocked, and I can always find everything I need. They have an extensive bakery and deli section that I appreciate. However, the downside is the long lines; it often feels like there aren't enough cashiers available. On the bright side, this location does have two restrooms conveniently located next to the Starbucks inside.

This store is the cleanest I've been to, and the employees are exceptional. Brett Tim in the meats and seafood department went above and beyond to meet my needs. Kimmy, who was a bartender at a ski resort, has extensive knowledge about liquor. Lisa, Brenda, Tom, and many others are always ready to answer any questions—no matter how outlandish—while wearing a smile.

Unfortunately, the employees here are not particularly friendly or polite, often seeming more interested in avoiding customers than helping them. In terms of inventory, they do a fairly good job of keeping the shelves stocked compared to nearby Target, which has a notorious reputation for poor stock levels. If you're looking for better alternatives, I recommend sticking with stores like Safeway, Smart and Final, or Bel Air. However, one significant advantage of this store is its excellent selection and availability of alcoholic beverages.

Firstly, I was shocked to learn that there are no paid vacations until after a year of employment. I requested an unpaid vacation week in July, and although one of the higher-ups initially approved it, when the time came, I was told I had never made such a request. I admit I wasn't aware of the online request system or the necessary documentation protocols, which may have contributed to the misunderstanding. After working there for seven months, it seemed that one of the managers didn’t grasp my role as a baker; I was not a general clerk. I respected my colleagues but was hired as a lead instructor. Additionally, my hours were reduced due to another employee’s limitations, which violated Union regulations that stipulate I should have at least 24 hours of work per week. I was given only 20 hours for an entire month, and when I asked for an increase due to my relocation costs, the manager promised to get back to me but never did. I had also requested another unpaid week about two months prior. Despite receiving initial approval and following up multiple times, my request was denied just before I was directed to perform labor in another department, which again violated union rules. In the end, I was left with a choice: continue working in that department or take a position as a baker at another location that was farther from my home and cost me more in gas, all for just slightly over minimum wage. My overall experience at this establishment was negative. I understand why some employees may come across as rude—they're not being treated well. I have since left this job and have no intention of returning, despite how much I loved working at the bakery itself. The relationships I built with my coworkers, friends, family, and the customers were truly fulfilling, and I will cherish those moments. I want to thank Phil for being my first connection in this job; while it might not have seemed substantial, I genuinely enjoyed every moment. To the higher-ups, including one of the managers and the branch director, I appreciate the opportunity, but you must recognize the importance of treating your employees with kindness. If you truly want to gauge how someone is doing, observe how they treat those below them in the hierarchy, not their peers. Thank you for reading.

Josh in the sandwich area...great service! I gave him a big order of 6 breakfast burritos and he took his time and didn't rush, and made them better than anybody else I've seen make them. Every time I go to other Safeways, they always rush and aren't very friendly. Josh showed great service and was very nice despite my large order and it being 4th of July. Thanks Josh!