Pros
The people at ASDA are by far the biggest pro and each of the 6 stores I have worked in take the concept "team" very seriously. There is also ample opportunity for coaching from experienced members of management around any area of the job.
Cons
Training is diabolical - very much a ticky box exercise. On the graduate scheme there is little to no opportunity to shape your own path - your roles, the duration you hold them for and their location are very much dictated to you by the regional teams. This only worsens after you have completed the scheme. Post re-structure, there is even less opportunity for advancement and competition is even more fierce for any step up - you really have to ingratiate yourself with the right people. Saddest of all is seeing the atmosphere drain out of our stores since the re-structure in 2014, particularly in the Section Leader and colleague populations - I hope the company find their way again soon for the colleagues' sake.