<P> Trader Joe's compensates its crew well . Store managers ("Captains") have earnings in the six figures and supervisory crew ("Mates") can start at $45,000 - $75,000 per year . Crew members are reviewed twice a year and on average have the potential to receive a 7% - 10% annual increase . The company provides a great retirement plan and currently contributes 10% of annual salary to eligible crew, and the plan allows crew to save pre-tax dollars towards their own retirement . Medical, dental and vision plans are offered to eligible crew at a low cost (currently $75 / month). All crew members obtain a 10% discount on all products available at the store and paid time - off that increases with tenure. (Citation Needed) </P> <P> As of February 16, 2017, Trader Joe's had 464 stores in the United States with stores being added regularly . Most locations averaged between 10,000 and 15,000 sq ft (1,400 m). In February 2008, BusinessWeek reported that the company had the highest sales per square foot of any grocer in the United States . Two - and - a-half years later, Fortune magazine estimated sales to be $1,750 in merchandise per square foot, more than double the sales generated by Whole Foods . </P> <P> Each location is designed to represent its respective area . Every store has its own crew members that create artwork to represent the surrounding neighborhood . Some store locations have their own "find the mascot" and kids can obtain a prize when they tell a crew where it is "hiding". </P> <P> Trader Joe's is a tiki - nautical themed establishment but locational stores may include props to blend into the local area; for example, a surf theme for a store near the beach . Legend even says that some locations have a rather peculiar initiation where they have their employees "walk the plank". </P>

Are aldi and trader joe's sister companies