Retail Banner

Retail

Sector Overview

Between 2013 and 2020, the retail sector is anticipated to grow by 54,800, with the majority of opportunities existing at a managerial level. Highly skilled managers are increasingly in demand owing to technology, changing customer trends and more streamlined, cohesive supply chain models.

  • The retail sector is the UK’s largest private sector employer, with 2.9 million employees.
  • Customer service is critical in an incredibly competitive retail market, where two-way conversations are instant via global social channels.
  • There are approximately 287,000 retail outlets in the UK.
  • 66% of all retail employees work for the largest 75 retail companies.
  • More than a third of consumer spending goes through shops – though this may change with anticipated growth in online spending.
  • Retail’s current gender split is 58:42 (female/male).

Sector Details

There are significant career opportunities in retail in a wide range of roles, from commercial buying across the globe to supply chain management. It’s a great sector for developing management skills and can involve overseeing large, multi-discipline teams.

  • We recruit a broad spectrum of roles in retail, from buying and merchandising to warehouse, distribution and supply chain management.
  • In additional to technical ability, skills such as leadership, innovation and commercial understanding are highly valued.
  • The sector offers plenty of opportunity for career progression, with the potential to achieve management status at a relatively early age.
View all jobs

Interested in placing a position with us?

If you are an employer and want to know more about our specialist recruitment services, please get in touch today.




Get in touch

Interested in advancing your career?

If you’re looking to make your next career move in these specialisms, drop us a line and we can start matching your experience with some fantastic roles.

Get in touch