Quick Overview
- 1#1: Quinyx - Quinyx provides AI-powered workforce management that optimizes staff scheduling based on demand forecasting for supermarkets and retail chains.
- 2#2: UKG - UKG offers comprehensive workforce management with advanced scheduling, labor forecasting, and compliance for large supermarket operations.
- 3#3: Deputy - Deputy delivers mobile-first scheduling software for shift planning, availability management, and team communication in retail settings.
- 4#4: When I Work - When I Work simplifies employee scheduling, shift trading, and time tracking for hourly supermarket staff.
- 5#5: Homebase - Homebase provides free scheduling, time tracking, and hiring tools for small supermarket and retail teams.
- 6#6: Connecteam - Connecteam is an all-in-one app for scheduling, communication, and task management for frontline supermarket workers.
- 7#7: Sling - Sling enables team scheduling, labor cost tracking, and shift notifications for supermarket hourly employees.
- 8#8: Workforce.com - Workforce.com streamlines rostering, timesheets, and compliance for retail and supermarket operations.
- 9#9: 7shifts - 7shifts offers scheduling and labor forecasting software optimized for food retail and supermarket environments.
- 10#10: ZoomShift - ZoomShift provides cloud-based scheduling and attendance tracking for small to medium-sized supermarkets.
Tools were chosen and ranked based on their ability to deliver robust scheduling features (including forecasting and compliance), user experience, reliability, and overall value, ensuring they meet the diverse demands of supermarket environments.
Comparison Table
Effective staff scheduling is key for supermarkets to manage labor costs, compliance, and team satisfaction. This comparison table examines tools like Quinyx, UKG, Deputy, When I Work, Homebase, and more, helping readers identify features, usability, and alignment with their operational needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Quinyx Quinyx provides AI-powered workforce management that optimizes staff scheduling based on demand forecasting for supermarkets and retail chains. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | UKG UKG offers comprehensive workforce management with advanced scheduling, labor forecasting, and compliance for large supermarket operations. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Deputy Deputy delivers mobile-first scheduling software for shift planning, availability management, and team communication in retail settings. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | When I Work When I Work simplifies employee scheduling, shift trading, and time tracking for hourly supermarket staff. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 5 | Homebase Homebase provides free scheduling, time tracking, and hiring tools for small supermarket and retail teams. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 6 | Connecteam Connecteam is an all-in-one app for scheduling, communication, and task management for frontline supermarket workers. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | Sling Sling enables team scheduling, labor cost tracking, and shift notifications for supermarket hourly employees. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 8 | Workforce.com Workforce.com streamlines rostering, timesheets, and compliance for retail and supermarket operations. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 9 | 7shifts 7shifts offers scheduling and labor forecasting software optimized for food retail and supermarket environments. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | ZoomShift ZoomShift provides cloud-based scheduling and attendance tracking for small to medium-sized supermarkets. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 |
Quinyx provides AI-powered workforce management that optimizes staff scheduling based on demand forecasting for supermarkets and retail chains.
UKG offers comprehensive workforce management with advanced scheduling, labor forecasting, and compliance for large supermarket operations.
Deputy delivers mobile-first scheduling software for shift planning, availability management, and team communication in retail settings.
When I Work simplifies employee scheduling, shift trading, and time tracking for hourly supermarket staff.
Homebase provides free scheduling, time tracking, and hiring tools for small supermarket and retail teams.
Connecteam is an all-in-one app for scheduling, communication, and task management for frontline supermarket workers.
Sling enables team scheduling, labor cost tracking, and shift notifications for supermarket hourly employees.
Workforce.com streamlines rostering, timesheets, and compliance for retail and supermarket operations.
7shifts offers scheduling and labor forecasting software optimized for food retail and supermarket environments.
ZoomShift provides cloud-based scheduling and attendance tracking for small to medium-sized supermarkets.
Quinyx
enterpriseQuinyx provides AI-powered workforce management that optimizes staff scheduling based on demand forecasting for supermarkets and retail chains.
AI-powered demand forecasting that predicts sales-driven staffing needs with high accuracy
Quinyx is a leading workforce management platform tailored for retail environments like supermarkets, providing AI-powered staff scheduling to optimize labor costs and coverage. It integrates demand forecasting, automated shift planning, and compliance tools to handle variable store traffic and labor laws efficiently. The solution also offers employee self-service via mobile app, real-time visibility, and integrations with POS and ERP systems for seamless operations.
Pros
- AI-driven forecasting and auto-scheduling for peak demand handling
- Comprehensive mobile app with self-service for employees
- Strong integrations and scalability for multi-store chains
Cons
- Steep learning curve during initial implementation
- Custom pricing can be expensive for smaller operations
- Advanced features may require dedicated support
Best For
Large supermarket chains and multi-location retailers needing intelligent, scalable staff scheduling to minimize costs and maximize efficiency.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on users and modules; typically starts at $5-10 per employee/month, quote required.
UKG
enterpriseUKG offers comprehensive workforce management with advanced scheduling, labor forecasting, and compliance for large supermarket operations.
Intelligent Scheduling with AI-driven demand forecasting integrated directly with POS and sales data for optimal staffing.
UKG (Ultimate Kronos Group) is a leading workforce management platform offering robust staff scheduling solutions optimized for high-volume retail environments like supermarkets. It features AI-driven forecasting, automated shift creation based on sales data and labor demand, and tools for compliance with labor laws and union rules. The software integrates seamlessly with HR, payroll, and POS systems to streamline operations across multiple locations.
Pros
- AI-powered predictive scheduling that dynamically adjusts to sales forecasts and real-time demand
- Comprehensive integration with HR, payroll, and retail POS systems for end-to-end workforce management
- Mobile-first employee self-service for shift swaps, time-off requests, and availability updates
Cons
- High implementation costs and lengthy setup process for enterprise-scale deployments
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users and smaller teams
- Pricing is opaque and customized, often prohibitive for mid-sized supermarkets
Best For
Large supermarket chains with multiple locations seeking enterprise-grade scheduling with advanced forecasting and compliance tools.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically $10-20 per employee/month plus implementation fees.
Deputy
specializedDeputy delivers mobile-first scheduling software for shift planning, availability management, and team communication in retail settings.
AI-driven demand forecasting that automatically suggests schedules based on historical sales and foot traffic data
Deputy is a mobile-first workforce management platform tailored for shift-based industries like supermarkets, enabling managers to create, publish, and adjust staff schedules efficiently. It features drag-and-drop scheduling, automated shift filling based on availability and skills, and real-time notifications to handle last-minute changes common in retail environments. Additional tools include time tracking, labor cost forecasting tied to sales data, and integrations with POS systems for demand-driven planning.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling with auto-fill and shift swaps
- Excellent mobile app for employee self-service and communication
- Sales-linked demand forecasting to optimize staffing during peaks
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams with advanced features
- Some integrations require higher-tier plans
- Reporting customization can feel limited for complex supermarket needs
Best For
Mid-sized supermarkets with variable shift patterns, high staff turnover, and a need for mobile accessibility.
Pricing
Essentials plan starts at $3.50/active user/month; Plus at $5.25; Enterprise custom pricing with advanced forecasting and integrations.
When I Work
specializedWhen I Work simplifies employee scheduling, shift trading, and time tracking for hourly supermarket staff.
OpenShifts marketplace allowing employees to claim and trade shifts autonomously
When I Work is a cloud-based staff scheduling platform tailored for hourly workforces, enabling managers to create, publish, and manage shifts across multiple locations. It features employee self-service tools like shift trades, time-off requests, and availability updates via a mobile app, along with time tracking and labor cost insights. For supermarkets, it simplifies staffing for cashiers, stockers, and managers during variable peak hours while ensuring compliance with overtime rules.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling interface
- Robust mobile app for employee self-service and shift swaps
- Seamless integrations with payroll systems like QuickBooks
Cons
- Lacks advanced sales-based forecasting for retail peaks
- Reporting and analytics are somewhat basic
- Customization options limited for complex union rules
Best For
Small to medium supermarkets with hourly, shift-based staff needing simple, mobile-first scheduling without advanced demand forecasting.
Pricing
Free for teams up to 75 users; paid plans start at $2/active user/month (Essential) up to $3.50+ for advanced features (billed annually).
Homebase
specializedHomebase provides free scheduling, time tracking, and hiring tools for small supermarket and retail teams.
OpenShifts, allowing employees to claim available shifts instantly via mobile app to fill gaps quickly in fast-paced supermarket environments.
Homebase is a comprehensive workforce management platform tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, including supermarkets, offering drag-and-drop scheduling, time tracking, and employee communication tools. It enables supermarkets to create shift templates, manage open shifts, and track labor costs with mobile clock-ins and geofencing to prevent time theft. Additional features like hiring tools and performance insights help address high-turnover retail environments, though it's best suited for smaller operations rather than large chains.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling with shift templates and auto-fill
- Free plan for single-location supermarkets with core features
- Robust mobile app for employee self-scheduling and clock-ins
Cons
- Limited advanced labor forecasting and analytics on lower tiers
- Per-location pricing model becomes expensive for multi-store chains
- Fewer integrations with supermarket-specific POS systems compared to competitors
Best For
Small to mid-sized supermarkets (1-5 locations) needing an affordable, user-friendly tool for daily staff scheduling and time tracking.
Pricing
Free for basic scheduling (1 location); Starter at $24.95/location/month, Essentials $39.95, Premium $79.95 (billed annually).
Connecteam
specializedConnecteam is an all-in-one app for scheduling, communication, and task management for frontline supermarket workers.
Smart auto-scheduling that matches employee availability, skills, and labor forecasts to optimize shifts automatically
Connecteam is a mobile-first all-in-one workforce management platform tailored for frontline teams in retail like supermarkets, offering robust staff scheduling with drag-and-drop calendars, availability-based auto-scheduling, and shift swapping. It integrates time tracking with geofencing to prevent buddy punching, real-time notifications, and employee self-service via app. Beyond scheduling, it includes communication chats, task checklists, and performance insights to streamline supermarket operations.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile app with drag-and-drop scheduling and employee self-service for shift claims/swaps
- Geofenced GPS time clock and overtime alerts for compliance in multi-location supermarkets
- All-in-one integration of scheduling with communication and tasks reducing need for multiple tools
Cons
- Feature overload can overwhelm users focused only on scheduling
- Pricing scales quickly for large supermarket teams beyond 30 users
- Advanced forecasting and custom reports locked behind higher-tier plans
Best For
Medium-sized supermarkets with hourly frontline staff needing integrated scheduling, time tracking, and communication in one mobile app.
Pricing
Free for up to 10 users; paid plans start at $29/month (up to 30 users), with per-user fees of $0.50-$1.20/month on higher plans like Advanced ($49 base) and Expert ($99 base).
Sling
specializedSling enables team scheduling, labor cost tracking, and shift notifications for supermarket hourly employees.
Real-time labor cost tracking that automatically calculates expenses as schedules are built and adjusted
Sling is a comprehensive workforce management platform focused on employee scheduling, time tracking, communication, and task management, tailored for industries like retail and supermarkets with shift-based staffing. It enables drag-and-drop schedule creation, availability requests, labor cost forecasting, and mobile clock-ins to optimize staffing efficiency. The software also includes team messaging and reminders to reduce no-shows and improve coordination in fast-paced environments.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling with templates for quick setup
- Free basic plan with generous features for small teams
- Real-time mobile access for clock-ins, swaps, and communication
Cons
- Limited integrations with supermarket POS or payroll systems
- Advanced reporting and forecasting locked behind premium tiers
- Scalability issues for very large multi-location chains
Best For
Small to medium supermarkets needing an affordable, easy-to-use tool for shift scheduling and basic labor management.
Pricing
Free basic plan; Standard plan at $2/user/month; Premium at $4/user/month (billed annually).
Workforce.com
specializedWorkforce.com streamlines rostering, timesheets, and compliance for retail and supermarket operations.
AI Now Forecasting that predicts staffing needs from POS sales and historical trends
Workforce.com is a robust workforce management platform tailored for hourly operations like supermarkets, providing AI-driven staff scheduling, time and attendance tracking, and compliance tools. It enables drag-and-drop shift planning, demand forecasting based on sales data, and employee self-service through a mobile app for shift swaps and clock-ins. The software optimizes labor costs with real-time insights and integrates with POS systems for seamless supermarket operations.
Pros
- AI-powered demand forecasting integrates sales data for accurate staffing
- Comprehensive mobile app for employee shift management and clocking
- Strong compliance features for labor laws and break management
Cons
- Pricing scales with active users, potentially costly for small stores
- Feature-rich interface has a moderate learning curve
- Advanced analytics locked behind higher-tier plans
Best For
Mid-to-large supermarkets with multiple locations seeking automated, data-driven scheduling and labor optimization.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $3-6 per active user/month with Essentials, Advanced, and Ultimate tiers.
7shifts
specialized7shifts offers scheduling and labor forecasting software optimized for food retail and supermarket environments.
Sales-based labor forecasting to optimize staffing during peak grocery shopping hours
7shifts is an employee scheduling platform primarily designed for restaurants but adaptable for supermarkets, enabling managers to build shift schedules, manage availability, and track labor costs. It offers mobile apps for staff to view schedules, request time off, and communicate via team messaging. Additional tools include time clocking, payroll integration, and basic labor forecasting based on sales data.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling interface
- Strong mobile app for employee self-service
- Labor forecasting and cost tracking tools
Cons
- Restaurant-focused features like tip pooling don't align well with supermarkets
- Limited integrations with supermarket-specific POS and inventory systems
- Advanced analytics require premium plans
Best For
Small to mid-sized supermarkets needing simple, mobile-friendly scheduling without complex retail-specific forecasting.
Pricing
Free for basic use (up to 50 shifts/month); Pro at $29.99/location/month; Premium at $43.99/location/month (billed annually).
ZoomShift
specializedZoomShift provides cloud-based scheduling and attendance tracking for small to medium-sized supermarkets.
Automated labor forecasting using historical sales data to predict optimal staffing levels
ZoomShift is a cloud-based employee scheduling software tailored for shift-based businesses like supermarkets, enabling managers to create, manage, and publish schedules efficiently. It offers features such as drag-and-drop scheduling, time tracking, shift trading, and mobile accessibility for staff to view shifts, clock in/out, and request time off. The platform also includes labor forecasting and basic reporting to help optimize staffing based on historical data and sales integration.
Pros
- Affordable per-user pricing model ideal for variable staffing needs
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling and strong mobile app for quick employee access
- Shift trading and open shift notifications streamline coverage in high-turnover environments
Cons
- Limited advanced forecasting and analytics for large multi-store supermarket chains
- Some key features like labor costing require higher-tier plans
- Integrations with POS and payroll systems are basic compared to enterprise competitors
Best For
Small to mid-sized supermarkets with multiple locations seeking a simple, cost-effective tool for hourly shift scheduling.
Pricing
Starts at $1.25/active user/month (Basic, billed annually) up to $3.25/active user/month (Elite), with a minimum of 20 users and 14-day free trial.
Conclusion
Reviewing the ten supermarket staff scheduling tools reveals a mix of strengths, with Quinyx leading as the top choice thanks to its AI-powered demand forecasting that optimizes scheduling for varying operational needs. UKG and Deputy stand out as strong alternatives, offering comprehensive, large-scale management and mobile-first flexibility respectively, catering to different business sizes and priorities.
Don’t miss out on Quinyx’s ability to enhance efficiency—explore its intelligent scheduling features to elevate your supermarket’s staffing operations.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison