Do you get all the benefits if you work in the retail area too, because that is nice.

I would totally suggest working in the retail store while you are trying to get something at corporate. You show them that you really want to work for the company.

I would let them know that you are trying to work for corporate up front, that shows you have ambitions. They might even know when something opens up before you do. Also, working in the store is a good way to get to know the management, how it works, and quite possibly corporate employees. This might help when you apply, because they will remember you name.