Retail sector 'holds career prospects'

Monday, 05 January 2009

The retail sector has prospects for young workers despite the current economic climate in the UK, according to a new poll.

Research carried out by Skillsmart Retail and BMG Research found 51% of careers advisors think the sector offers more opportunities than it did five years ago.

Just 11% of those questioned by the duo believe the retail sector offers worse prospects than it did in 2003, when the economy was in better shape.

Advisors said the sector is an improved one because of an enhanced career structure, better wages and the greater availability of qualifications that can be obtained by workers.

Moreover, the survey found that retail is better than the finance and banking sectors for developing work-based skills and for being given responsibility early.

Skillsmart Retail chief executive Anne Seaton said: "Careers advisors are very influential in helping young people make choices about careers in different sectors.

"Hopefully this message will filter down to young people across the UK so that they want to find out more about the wide range of opportunities that exist for a successful and fulfilling career in retail.

"We will work with retailers to promote career pathways in retail and look positively at the year ahead."

Despite the positive views of the advisors polled, a number of retailers have fallen into administration recently.

Woolworths is set to shut its doors for the final time tomorrow (6 January) after some stores were kept open for an extra day to sell remaining stock.

However, overall retail sales rose in November, the Office of National Statistics said, even though a decline had been forecast.