01 / VISIT
Written-report assignments
Follow a scenario, pay attention to the service you receive and complete a clear, factual questionnaire afterwards.
Join our UK mystery shopper community
Become a mystery shopper with MCE.
Help businesses understand the customer experience by visiting locations, observing service and reporting what really happened.
What is mystery shopping?
See a business through its customers' eyes.
Mystery shopping involves carrying out an agreed customer journey and recording your observations against a brief. Depending on the assignment, you might visit a shop, make an enquiry or assess a service interaction. Your feedback helps organisations understand what customers actually experience.
02 / OBSERVE
Video mystery shopping
Some specialist assignments involve discreet video recording as part of an agreed client programme. These require suitable equipment, training and careful adherence to the assignment brief.
03 / REPORT
Other evaluations
Depending on current client programmes, opportunities may involve telephone enquiries or other customer experience checks.
Getting started
How MCE assignments work.
01
Register
Use the MCE shopper portal to start your registration and provide the requested information.
02
Review opportunities
Once your registration is accepted, check the portal for assignments that match your location and suitability.
03
Read the brief
Before accepting or carrying out work, check the scenario, reporting requirements, timing and stated fee or reimbursement terms.
04
Complete your report
Follow the agreed instructions, submit your observations accurately and respond to any clarification requests.
What makes a good shopper?
Curiosity, reliability and attention to detail.
Good mystery shoppers notice the small things, follow instructions carefully and describe interactions fairly. You should be comfortable communicating clearly, meeting deadlines and using an online reporting portal.
Assignments vary by location, client requirements and availability. Some require purchases, travel or specialist equipment; always check the brief and any applicable reimbursement arrangements before accepting.
Before you apply
- Be prepared to provide accurate registration details.
- Read each assignment brief in full.
- Keep observations objective and confidential.
- Only undertake assignments you can complete reliably.
Ready to get started?
Register your interest through the MCE shopper portal.
Open the secure Shopmetrics portal to find the registration or sign-in options. New applicants should use the registration option rather than the existing-shopper login.
Registration and assignment availability are subject to MCE's requirements. Registering does not guarantee assignments or income. Check each brief for the applicable fee and reimbursement terms.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions.
Do I need previous mystery shopping experience?
Previous experience may be useful, but suitability depends on the specific assignment and MCE's registration requirements. Read the brief carefully before taking on work.
Is mystery shopping a full-time job?
Assignments are offered according to client demand, location and suitability. They should not be treated as guaranteed or regular employment.
Will I be paid for assignments?
Fees and any reimbursements vary by assignment. Check the stated terms, expenses and payment arrangements before accepting any work.
Where do I find assignments and submit reports?
Registered shoppers use MCE's secure Shopmetrics portal for assignment information and reporting.
What if I already have an MCE shopper account?
Use the existing-shopper login in the Shopmetrics portal rather than registering again.