Retail jobs declined in the first quarter, prompting a renewed call for government action on the cost of employing people and associated red tape.
The BRC’s analysis of the latest official data from the ONS showed that, on a four-quarter average basis, there were 2.79 million retail jobs. That was down 66,000 year on year and 398,000 fewer than 10 years ago.
The number of full-time jobs was down by 163,000 from a decade ago, while part-time jobs fell by 235,000 over the same period.
The figures came as retailers shoulder higher employment costs, which are particularly affecting the young, and amid worries that elements of the Employment Rights Act “could make it harder for businesses to offer the flexible and entry-level roles that many people rely on”.
BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson said: “The impact of rising employment costs cannot be ignored. Retail has long been the UK’s main job creator, but that is becoming harder to sustain.
“Employment has fallen to a record low as costs continue to rise. At a time when the economy needs growth, retailers and households need policies that support job creation, not put them at risk.
“For the young, the pressures are greater, with the number of young people not in education, employment, or training to reach 1.25 million over the next five years. Retail and its supply chain account for almost a quarter of all youth employment. Flexible, entry-level roles that help people gain skills, confidence, and experience are a vital route into work, but rising employment costs and additional regulatory burdens are choking off opportunities at a time when they’re needed most.
“If government is serious about tackling youth unemployment, it must bring down the cost of employing young people and ensure employment reforms support entry-level recruitment and progression. Retailers stand ready to work with the government to help more young people take that crucial first step on the career ladder.”
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