How Tesco’s Craig became a local legend — and a shining example of inclusive employment

“If only we could all be as friendly and helpful as Craig, the world would be a better place.”

When Craig Smith began working at Tesco three decades ago, little did he know he’d become something of a local celebrity in the Welsh market town of Mold.

Craig, 49, started work at the store when he was just 19 years-old after leaving school, quickly becoming a firm favourite with customers and loved by shoppers, who describe him as an ‘absolute legend.’

Craig works four days a week at the store, collecting in the baskets and trolleys and helping customers.

“I love it,” beams Craig, who is one of the store’s longest serving staff members.

“Come rain, snow or shine, I am always there. I get to meet a lot of people and have a chat.

“I’ve made so many friends working at Tesco. I like being able to help people with their shopping.”

Standing at 6ft 8ins tall, Craig said it was challenging to find trousers to fit his frame.

“Finding trousers can be a nightmare,” he laughed. I’m pretty tall with a 37 inch leg.

“But my uniform fits perfectly and I feel proud when I am wearing it.”

Craig, who is supported by the learning disability charity Hft, is also a savvy shopper himself, often looking for bargains when he finishes his shift.

He does his weekly food shop every Wednesday, assisted by his support worker.

At home, Craig enjoys weekends spent cooking with his partner Tracy, visiting with his mum and sister and he’s partial to the odd cider with his pals at his local.

Craig was presented with a special plaque when he celebrated 25 years with the supermarket giant, an accolade which sits proudly on his windowsill at home.

He also received a letter from the town Mayor thanking him for his dedicated service.

Craig says he has no plans to change career and hopes to work many more years at Tesco.

“Working gives me more than a pay cheque,” said Craig. “It gives me independence and the opportunity to learn new skills and get out and meet new people.

“It also supports my mental health and makes me feel part of the community.

“I love working at the supermarket.”

Shopper Simon Morris said: “I’ve been shopping there for 20 years and he’s never failed to greet me with a thumbs up, a smile and a shot across the car park, ‘how are you young man?’

“He’s an absolute star.” Sheridan Wilson said: “He always has a smile on his face. Always friendly, polite and helpful.

“He’s a credit to the store.” John Styles said: “If only we could all be as friendly and helpful (as Craig), the world would be a better place.”

Hft runs a Supported Employment programme enabling learning disabled adults to find and maintain paid work, ensuring individuals receive the necessary support through the employment process and beyond.

Craig’s Hft Employability Coach, Lee Myddleton, visits Craig fortnightly to assist with any work-related issues and training he may need to complete.

Lee said: “As Craig’s Employability Coach, I’ve seen first-hand how his role at Tesco truly benefits his life.

“Having worked there for 30 years, Craig benefits from the obvious financial rewards that paid employment brings, but it also gives purpose, structure and a strong sense of belonging.

“The partnership with Tesco has been invaluable.

“It has provided Craig with a supportive environment where he is recognised as a valued member of the team.

“Another major benefit is on Craig’s mental wellbeing. Craig is a highly personable and social individual, so his work helps him stay socially connected and less isolated.

“He takes immense pride in what he does and his interactions with customers really supports his confidence and mental health enormously.

“It’s a brilliant example of how inclusive employment and a collaborative working relationship between employers and supported employment providers can change lives.”

Following on from Craig’s successful partnership with Tesco, another person supported by Hft – Cliff – also now works at the store.

Hannah Calley, Store Manager at Tesco Mold Superstore, said: ‘”We are so proud to have Craig as a colleague, giving great service to all our customers.

“Craig has been an outstanding colleague and is well respected in the local community.

“Continuing to work with Hft, supporting people with disabilities into work, reflects our commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment at Tesco, where everyone is welcome.”

Mencap’s Big Public Transport Survey, carried out in 2024 revealed that there are 884,000 working age people with a learning disability in the UK.

The research found that only 29% of respondents with a learning disability are currently in work, the lowest employment rate of any health condition or disability.

Furthermore, results from the survey showed that 47% of people with a learning disability not currently in work would like a job.

If your company would like to find out more about Hft’s Supported Employment opportunities visit Hft | Supported Employment.