The retail industry is slowly crawling out of 2008's economic collapse and as such the level of recruitment is starting to climb. There are currently around 3 million retail workers in the UK and recruitment agencies are key in keeping these positions filled, whether it be a store manager, director or buyer. Despite the financial downturn at the end of the last decade, the sector continues to remain an important player in the countries economy, being responsible for around £500 million.

Salaries and key employers

While any average salary reported can be seen as distorted due to the diversity of job roles, typical workers in the retail industry can expect to earn around £26,000. Area managers or brand directors can comfortably earn in excess of £40,000, while a sales assistant may struggle to make more than £20,000. Salaries can also be difficult to determine as the retail sector has more part time employees than any other area of work. HR managers, window dressers and operations directors are also found under this sector.

Leicestershire is listed in the top 20 retail destinations in the country with the likes of Next, Marks & Spencer and Dunelm all having bases there. There are predicted to be around 35,000 job openings within the retail sector by 2020, the largest in the county, with the average wage coming in at around £27,000.

Entry requirements

Job roles in the retail industry are seldom degree driven with even senior positions such as directors and managers rarely needing further education. The industry is currently in a state of transition due to the influx of new technology, and this may require relevant training or qualifications in the future. Retailers may offer graduate schemes for those in finance, IT or HR but entering a role such as sales assistant is generally less intensive. Those successful in the field tend to need good people skills, initiative and basic numeracy skills and flexibility in the way of working hours.