The Distribution Center Team

Since 1920, The Duck Store has served the book and supply needs of the University of Oregon. As a non-profit, we believe in being student-first and exist to benefit students, and not to profit from them. We do this in many ways including student employment, discounted textbook prices, and support of University of Oregon programs.

Today we asked members of The Duck Store’s Distribution Center’s Online Store team to see what it is like working here, and how it connects with our non-profit mission.

Tell us more about The Duck Store's mission and your role in supporting that mission.

Kendra: When I think about The Duck Store’s mission, I see the Online Store as a big part of how we reach students, fans, and alumni. Even though I’m not always face-to-face with customers, my team and I are still involved in all the big moments of their year, whether it’s getting textbooks ready for pickup at the start of the term, shipping out graduation packages, or making sure special product launches go smoothly. I feel like we help keep that connection to the University strong throughout the year, and by working to get things out quickly and accurately, we make the experience the best it can be for everyone who’s part of the Duck community.

By shopping at The Duck Store and sharing our story, how do customers make a their own impact to our student-first mission?

Kendra: Shopping with us through the Online Store makes it easy for customers to support our student-first mission anytime, from anywhere. Since the website is always open, they can pick up Duck gear or supplies whenever it works best for them. Each purchase gives back to students, and we do our best to get their orders to them quickly so they can feel connected and part of that impact right away.

What is the culture like at The Duck Store?

Kaylyn: The Duck Store’s culture places a strong emphasis on community. Our primary responsibility is to cater to a diverse range of fans across Oregon and beyond. While our Online Operations role can sometimes be tough and challenging, we maintain a positive and supportive team environment. This fosters efficient order fulfillment and timely delivery of gear to fans worldwide.

Nicole: The culture at the Duck Store is really community based and fun! It feels like you are part of something bigger than just a retail store. It’s a place where students, fans, and all members of the community can come together. The energy is always upbeat, and everyone is so supportive of one another. This team works well together to make sure that everyone has a great experience here at the Duck Store.

Kendra: The culture at The Duck Store has always been about “Fans serving Fans,” and I think that really shines through in Online. I’ve had the privilege of working with and training some amazing team members who are always ready to support one another. We make it a point to go the extra mile. It could be something like helping in the moment or setting things up to be easier for each other down the road. We work very closely with our Processing Center team, and there’s a real sense of camaraderie in the building. I truly adore getting to work with them every day, and I couldn’t be prouder of the culture of excellence we’ve built together.

What do you enjoy about working here?

Kaylyn: I enjoy the behind-the-scenes impact I have working in the warehouse. It's fulfilling to know that my efforts in organizing, stocking, and preparing orders contribute to the store's overall success. I also value the camaraderie and teamwork. My team consistently supports one another, and we've built a strong bond that enables us to work efficiently and achieve success together. The problem-solving and collaboration involved in ensuring everything is where it needs to be, makes every day both challenging and rewarding.

Nicole: There are many reasons I enjoy working at the Duck Store. Working at the distribution center has been such an amazing experience; while workers here at the Distribution Center are behind the scenes, it is still rewarding knowing the work that we do helps the success of the company. I enjoy the people I work with, and the team here makes it such a positive environment to be in. Everyone works hard, but we also have fun while doing it.

Kendra: I love coming to work every day. Even when we’re facing 1,000 textbook orders or a huge shoe launch, I know I have my team right there with me, and they’re incredible. They’re always ready with a reassuring word or a helping hand, and I can trust them completely to get the job done. Anyone who’s joined us during a rush can tell you: there’s always music playing, plenty of laughs, and a real sense of working together. That’s honestly the best part, being able to share it all with such a supportive and fun team.

How do you find your work schedule balances with your other time (school, etc.)?

Kaylyn: Working on the online operations team has provided me with a great deal of flexibility regarding my school commitments. My team is incredibly understanding and has made it much easier for me to complete my undergraduate degree.

Nicole: I have found it easy to balance work with the rest of my life. It is flexible and allows me to take care of anything outside of work without feeling overwhelmed. The team here is really understanding, and we all just want to see each other succeed.

Kendra: The Duck Store has always been really good about helping employees get a schedule that works for them. Back when I was in school, they worked around my classes, and even when I was lifeguarding in the summers, they made it easy to balance both. Now it’s more about flexibility around holidays and family time, which I really appreciate. I also like getting to work home games at the stadium, and I’m lucky that I can shift things around here and there to make that happen. It means a lot that there’s always open communication and a willingness to figure it out.