McAulay said counsellors were available in store this week to support staff after her death.
The supermarket also paid tribute to Rodriguez on Facebook yesterday, describing her as a “truly special person”.
“She was kind, caring, hardworking, and deeply appreciated by both our team and our community.”
Members of the team will be wearing pink ribbons in Rodriguez’s honour for the next several days, the supermarket wrote.
“It’s a small way for us to remember and celebrate someone who meant so much to our team.”
The post attracted dozens of messages from customers and former colleagues expressing their shock and sadness.
Among them were the supermarket’s previous owners, who described Rodriguez as “a really valued member of our team with her kind soul and strong work ethic”.
“She managed to find the balance between efficiency while also delivering excellent customer service.
“It was a joy to see her develop into a confident young woman but heartbreaking to see her taken so soon.”
Several customers praised her chatty presence and smile as they offered their condolences.
“What a huge loss to our community,” one wrote.
“Such a neat kid who blossomed into such a gorgeous young woman,” another said.