Retail

• The retail sector employs around 37,500 across the whole of Norfolk with Norwich one of the top shopping destinations in the UK.
• Technology is changing the types of jobson offer. Automation such as self-service machines is reducing the number of sales and customer service assistants needed but retail managers will be in demand.
• The trend for online shopping became stronger during the Covid-19 pandemic, increasing the number of tech roles. Jobs such as e-commerce merchandiser, data analyst, digital marketer, app developer and social media manager are in demand. These types of jobs are usually found at the head offices of major retailers.
• The future? Look out for virtual try-ons, augmented reality and other experiential retail coming to online and bricks and mortar shops soon.
• Got an entrepreneurial streak? Online stores, local produce and ‘niche’ shops are all popular ideas amongst those wanting to set up their own retail business.

• Teamwork
• Speaking
• Customer awareness
• Business knowledge
• Emotional intelligence
• Advanced digital
• ICT skills
• Creativity
• Leadership
• Design
• English
• Maths
• Planning & organisation

• Art & design
• Sociology
• Business studies
• English
• Maths
• Computer science
• Design & technology
• Languages
• Psychology
• ICT

• Norwich City Centre is THE majory retail destination in the East of England.  Shopping areas:
  • Chantry Place - Norwich
  • Castle Quarter - Norwich
  • Market Gates - Great Yarmouth
  • Norwich Lanes
  • Vancouver Quarter - King's Lynn
• Main large shops are:
  • Marks & Spencer
  • Jarrolds
  • John Lewis
  • Roys
  • Simply M&S Food
• Supermarkets: Morrisons, Tesco, Sainsbury's, ASDA, Lidl, Aldi, Coop

Check-out operator                                   £15,000-£21,000

Sales assistant                                         £13,900-£30,850

Visual merchandiser                                 £18,300-£30,000

Marketing associate professional             £22,450-£77,400

Retail manager                                         £18,450-£54,450

Clothing designer                                     £22,400-£40,000

User experience (UX) designer               £25,000-£50,000

Business analyst                                     £29,250-£67,500+

Chief executive                                       £44,740-£120,000

(figures from the Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings 2021)

Getting good grades in English and maths can help you to get into this sector; digital skills may also help, however this sector is open to a wide range of talents.

Options at 16

A levels – many subjects are useful in this sector but business studies may be particularly useful for a career in management.

Apprenticeship

Intermediate apprenticeship (level 2)

• Trade supplier
• Fishmonger
• Customer service practitioner

Advanced apprenticeship (level 3)

• Retail team leader
• Procurement and supply assistant
• Marketing assistant
• Advertising and media executive
• Customer service specialist

T level and vocational qualifications

The new T level in management and administration or business studies courses can prepare you for a career in retail.

Options at 18 or 19

Undergraduate degree

Graduates from any discipline can apply for roles in this sector but a related degree such as business may increase your chances for a career in management. Many large employers run graduate schemes for management roles.

Apprenticeship - roles in this sector include:

• Market research executive (level 4)
• Sales executive (level 4)
• Public relations assistant (level 4)
• Retail manager (level 4)
• Assistant buyer (level 6)
• Digital marketer (level 6)
• Retail leadership (level 6 degree apprenticeship)

Gaining experience

Work experience, a paid job or voluntary work will allow you to demonstrate your skills and qualities. Employers are particularly looking for candidates who can show that they’re good at understanding people and can communicate well.