RETAIL

About Company:

The original Tailwind Deli started in 2001 and operated at the Aspen, CO airport. That’s where our tradition of offering high-quality food, beverage and retail began. It was a highly successful operation. In 2004, Tailwind Deli News and Gifts, Inc. opened in North Carolina at the Wilmington International Airport (ILM). In 2005, Tailwind made substantial investments at ILM to create a full-service airport concession, including catering services for private flights, conferences, and meetings.

Over the past decades, Tailwind’s growth has been impressive, expanding operations to airports small and large across the entire United States. For 20 years, since those early days at ILM, we have managed food, beverage, and retail concession services at airports across the country. Each location remains unique in its sense of place experience offered by our hospitality.

In 2021, Palladin Consumer Retail Partners, LLC (PCRP) acquired Tailwind Hospitality, Inc. (dba Tailwind Concessions) and simultaneously acquired Air Host, Inc., creating a leading airport concession platform throughout the United States. There were no organizational changes at Tailwind and all members of the executive team were retained.

In 2024, Tailwind acquired Oakwells, a leading retail and food and beverage concessionaire. Oakwells’ foundation of two decades amassed more than a dozen locations now served by the Tailwind team. Also in 2024, Tailwind purchased the concession operations at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport from Kind Hospitality. Tailwind continues to grow, expanding beyond airports to locations in rail stations and event centers.

About the Role:

The Retail Associate plays a crucial role in delivering an exceptional customer experience by providing knowledgeable, friendly, and efficient service in a retail environment. This position is responsible for assisting customers with product selection, answering inquiries, and ensuring the store is well-organized and visually appealing. The role requires managing transactions accurately and maintaining inventory levels to support smooth store operations. The Retail Associate contributes to achieving sales targets by promoting products and upselling when appropriate. Ultimately, this position supports the overall success of the retail location by fostering a welcoming atmosphere and building lasting customer relationships.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Basic math skills and ability to operate point-of-sale systems.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks such as lifting and stocking.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous retail or customer service experience.
• Familiarity with inventory management software.
• Ability to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays.
• Bilingual skills to assist a diverse customer base.
• Demonstrated ability to meet or exceed sales targets.

Responsibilities:

• Greet and assist customers in a courteous and professional manner, addressing their needs and questions.
• Process sales transactions accurately using point-of-sale systems and handle cash, credit, or other payment methods.
• Maintain store cleanliness, organization, and product displays to enhance the shopping experience.
• Restock shelves and manage inventory to ensure product availability and timely replenishment.
• Collaborate with team members and management to meet sales goals and support store initiatives.

Skills:

The required skills such as communication and basic math are essential for interacting effectively with customers and accurately processing transactions. Physical stamina and organizational skills are used daily to maintain the store environment and manage inventory. Preferred skills like experience with inventory software and bilingual abilities enhance efficiency and customer engagement, allowing the associate to serve a broader clientele. Problem-solving and teamwork skills are applied to address customer concerns and collaborate with colleagues to achieve sales objectives. Overall, these skills ensure the Retail Associate can contribute positively to both customer satisfaction and store performance.