i think it also depends where you work,,,chain stores-with ever-reducing payrolls, are factories, heavy emphasis on production for the masses
chain store employees, are also bound by standardized policies- every store must look the same- and planograms dont allow for flexibility..

freedom of initiative, creativity, flexibility- those are words usually eliminated in a chain store "culture"

in an independent store- this is worlds apart different- a cutter can try just about anything new he wants- any new marinade, stuffed item, -how its packaged, even try new descriptions (dave's own specialty sausage)

to me, this is what makes the day to day grind interesting, trying new ideas, the competition doesnt have, trying new ways to advertise, new sales themes,,, etc.

this is the difference between robots doing the same monotonous duties everyday, and having an atmosphere to inspire, motivate, and reward creativity for new initiatives

i was a chain store meat manager for many years- and was continuously told what i couldnt do....even if it was new merchandising that was selling well.. this didnt make sense to me,,

the best asset any store has is its employees, and companies should encourage merchandising creativity