Route Merchandiser
About the job
- A high school diploma or GED is required.
- A valid chauffeur's license with a clean driving record is required; candidates must meet all Department of Transportation requirements and pass a comprehensive background and driving history check.
- Strong communication and customer service skills are required, including the ability to read, speak, and understand English.
- Proficiency with computers, iPads, GPS technology, and basic inventory systems is required.
- The ability to operate pallet jacks is required where applicable to the region.
- Candidates must be results-oriented and adaptable, balance business needs with customer requests, follow through consistently, and quickly apply new information.
- Candidates must be detail-oriented, professional, and comfortable with structured environments and routine tasks, and able to follow written and verbal instructions.
- Strong visual merchandising abilities and a commitment to maintaining a clean, organized, and welcoming product presentation are required.
- The role requires climbing in and out of a vehicle; loading and unloading products; bending, stooping, pulling, pushing, and twisting; extended walking and standing; and regularly lifting up to 50 pounds.
- The role requires operating a company vehicle equipped with continuous driver-facing and road-facing video safety technology.
- Maintain accurate inventory levels across all product categories, including beverages, pre-packaged foods, fresh items, and snacks.
- Count, record, and order inventory following established protocols, and complete full inventory counts as required.
- Restock shelves, coolers, coffee stations, and other product displays, ensuring proper product rotation and adherence to inventory tracking procedures.
- Remove, document, and properly handle out-of-date or rejected merchandise.
- Load and unload products safely using proper lifting techniques and equipment.
- Deliver merchandise using a company vehicle, ensuring perishable items are handled and refrigerated appropriately during transit and stocking.
- Optimize route efficiency to reduce overall drive time and improve productivity.
- Ensure coolers and refrigeration units maintain proper temperatures and report deviations.
- Collect money from kiosks and vending machines following cash-handling and loss-prevention protocols, and record transactions accurately.
- Monitor and report unusual or concerning activity related to safety, security, or potential misconduct.
- Clean coffee machines, microwaves, coolers, shelves, racks, counters, floors, windows, and surrounding areas to maintain a clean and professional point of sale.
- Inspect product quality and appearance, report stale or defective items, and conduct a final walk-through to ensure standards are met.
- Initiate service requests when equipment issues require technical support.
- Provide training to new Route Merchandisers depending on regional needs.
- Perform additional assignments and projects as needed.
- Prior experience in delivery, route driving, merchandising, or customer service is preferred.
- The ability to operate box trucks is preferred.
About the company
Continental Services is a contract dining management company that provides fresh, handcrafted food for corporate workplaces, grab-and-go pantry-style vending, special events, and luxury yachts. The company runs on long-term contracts and event-based services, delivering tailored dining solutions through on-site staffing, menu design, catering operations, and specialized yacht provisioning. By managing client needs end-to-end, Continental ensures high-quality food and reliable service for businesses, events, and luxury vessels. What sets Continental apart is its collaborative culture, flexible hours, and a track record of adapting to crises (notably its COVID-19 response, where it fed frontline health workers), along with its focus on reimagining workplace dining. The company’s goal is to be a trusted partner for corporate dining, events, and luxury hospitality by delivering customized, consistent, and dependable food experiences while supporting clients’ operational needs.
Company Size
201-500
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Troy, Michigan
Founded
1989
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Continental claims more than 3,000 clients, including Fortune 100 companies, as of April 2026.
- Updated July 2026 materials highlight award-winning teams and 24/7 service technicians.
- Its Midwest footprint spans Detroit, Cleveland, Columbus, Indianapolis, and other dense markets.
What critics are saying
- Private-equity ownership shifted to Morgan Street Holdings in November 2024, pressuring exit-driven execution.
- Michigan Central and similar premium accounts concentrate revenue in event-driven, discretionary spending.
- Workplace dining demand stays fragile if remote work reduces on-site headcount through 2026.
What makes Continental Services unique
- Detroit-founded since 1989, Continental serves workplaces, events, and yachts across the Midwest.
- It pairs contract dining with micro-markets, coffee, delivery, and custom culinary programs.
- Michigan Central named Continental exclusive catering partner on April 20, 2026.
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Benefits
- Meal Benefits