Don't Drink the Kool-Aide...No Matter How Tasty It Seems - Anonymous employee Crate and Barrel Employee Review

2.0
Jan 27, 2009
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Crate has a family-like atmosphere, and generally employs highly-educated individuals (in terms of the retail industry). The company's benefits package is generous, and their training programs well-developed. It's a successful retail concept, with a proven-track record of excellence in merchandising.

Cons

Crate values tenure over all other job qualifications. Education and experience (with other companies or within other industries) seem to be unimportant as an evaluative function for promotion or placement. It can be quite frustrating and demoralizing. Generally, should you want to work at the corporate offices in more than an administrative capacity, you must start in middle management in the retail stores and work your way up.

Explore other reviews about Crate and Barrel

5.0
Apr 2, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Flexible, nice people, supportive managers

Cons

Can’t think of any cons

1.0
May 11, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

The office had a good coffee machine, which employees appreciated. The cafeteria staff member was friendly and welcoming, which made the environment feel a little more positive. Opportunity to observe how long-established corporate operations function.

Cons

Management style felt very micromanaged. The management in the IT appeared heavily focused on older management methods rather than collaborative leadership. Favoritism was noticeable among certain employees and teams. Contract workers were treated differently from full-time employees, including exclusion from social events, food gatherings, and team activities. The IT teams often seemed disconnected and unwilling to support or train others properly. Communication issues were common, including employees talking negatively about coworkers behind their backs. Training and onboarding lacked structure and consistency. The workplace often felt disorganized, with unclear processes and coordination problems.

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All