Employee Perks at Ice Cream Shops: Do You Get to Enjoy the Sweet Treats?

Working at an ice cream shop can be a dream job, especially for those who have a sweet tooth. However, the extent to which employees can enjoy the treats they serve varies widely depending on the specific store and its policies. This article will explore these aspects and provide insights into the different perks and benefits that employees at ice cream shops can potentially enjoy.

The Variable Nature of Employee Benefits at Ice Cream Shops

Many ice cream shops offer their employees free or discounted ice cream during their shifts. This is a perk that can significantly enhance the employee experience. Some stores have a policy allowing employees to take home a limited amount of ice cream after their shifts, while others might permit a larger scoop at the end of every shift or during a 15-minute break. These policies can vary significantly from one store to another, depending on the management and the company culture.

A Personal Experience: My Ice Cream Shop

At my ice cream shop, we are allowed a large scoop of ice cream at the end of every shift or during a 15-minute break. This is a true blessing, and it has proven to be a significant morale booster. With over 50 different flavors, the variety is indeed impressive. The ice cream is of the highest quality, made in-house, and is described as the best ice cream I've ever tasted. The generosity of my boss is commendable, as we also get a 20% discount on purchases, even on ice cream cakes. Additionally, we receive a living wage, tips, and bonuses, making this a truly remarkable experience.

Corporate Policies and Employee Discounts

While many ice cream shops are generous with their employee benefits, corporate businesses tend to put limits on or completely bar employees from eating food on the job. However, there are exceptions. For instance, a high school in walking distance from my shop hires mostly 16–18-year-old students who stay on for a few more years. We are allowed a large scoop of ice cream at the end of every shift or on our 15-minute break. This is a real perk, and it's important to note that if you don't like it or get tired of it, someone in your house is likely to appreciate it or put it in the freezer to save for later.

The Role of Quality and Quantity in Ice Cream Shop Perks

The quantity and quality of ice cream that employees can enjoy also vary depending on the store. For example, when I worked at AW Drive-in in high school, we could have as much root beer as we wanted because it was so cheap. However, we couldn't touch the lemonade, as it was the most expensive drink with the lowest margin. I was also allowed to take a gallon of root beer home at the end of the shift without causing any issues. I could even make myself a burger if I wanted, but not the chicken, as the food cost vs. the margin wouldn't be beneficial.

Similarly, my niece, who worked at an ice cream shop, had an employee discount but it was limited. Different stores, even independent franchises of chains, have different policies. This is why there is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether employees get to enjoy the treats they serve. Some stores, like the one I described, are extremely generous, while others are more restrictive.

Conclusion

The extent to which employees at ice cream shops can enjoy the sweet treats they serve is largely dependent on the specific store and its policies. While many stores offer generous perks, such as free or discounted ice cream and the ability to take home a limited amount, corporate businesses tend to have stricter policies. Understanding the policies at a particular ice cream shop is crucial, and asking about the benefits provided to employees is always a good idea.