Retail is a customer-oriented sector that involves selling products or services directly to consumers.  

Hare are just a few examples of the skills needed in the retail industry. The specific skills required may vary depending on the type of retail establishment, such as fashion retail, grocery stores, or specialised boutiques. Continuous learning and development in areas such as technology, trends, and customer behaviour are also important in adapting to the evolving retail landscape. 

Our position

  1. Addressing the need to attract young people to work in the retail industry 

  2. lobbying for reforms in the apprenticeship scheme that can make it more accessible for independent retailers 

  3. Engage in ongoing dialogues and collaborations with government departments such as the Department of Trade and Business and the Department of Education. 

  4. Advocate for policies and initiatives that support the development of retail skills, provide financial incentives for training programs, and facilitate the integration of technology into small businesses.

What you can do

Keep us informed by letting us know of any current issues, opinions or updates. Email membership@bira.co.uk. 

 

 

Our Latest News

 

Customer Service: Retail is centred around providing exceptional customer service. This includes skills such as active listening, effective communication, empathy, and problem-solving. Retail professionals need to be able to understand and meet customer needs, handle inquiries and complaints, and create positive experiences for shoppers.

Product Knowledge: Having a deep understanding of the products or services being offered is crucial in retail. Retail professionals should be knowledgeable about the features, benefits, and uses of the items they sell. This enables them to provide accurate information to customers, make appropriate recommendations, and assist with purchasing decisions.

Sales and Upselling: Retail involves sales activities, and having strong sales skills can contribute to the success of a retail business. This includes skills such as persuasion, relationship building, product demonstration, and the ability to upsell or cross-sell complementary products. Effective sales techniques help drive revenue and increase customer satisfaction.

Cash Handling and Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems: Retail professionals often handle cash transactions and use electronic point-of-sale systems. Skills in cash handling, accuracy in processing payments, and familiarity with POS systems are essential to ensure smooth and secure transactions.

Merchandising and Visual Presentation: Creating visually appealing displays and arranging merchandise in an attractive and organised manner is an important skill in retail. Understanding principles of visual merchandising, product placement, and aesthetics can help enhance the overall shopping experience and increase sales. 

Teamwork and Collaboration: Many retail environments require employees to work as part of a team. Collaboration skills, effective communication with colleagues, and the ability to work together towards common goals are vital in maintaining a positive and efficient work environment.

Problem-solving and Adaptability: Retail can present various challenges, such as handling difficult customers, resolving conflicts, or managing unexpected situations. Skills in problem-solving, adaptability, and remaining calm under pressure are valuable to address issues swiftly and maintain a positive shopping environment.

Time Management and Organisation: Retail professionals often have multiple responsibilities, such as assisting customers, restocking shelves, and managing inventory. Strong time management skills, the ability to prioritise tasks, and staying organised are essential to ensure efficiency and productivity.

Social Media: In today's digital age, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, and it's no different when it comes to the world of retail. Shop workers play a crucial role in connecting with customers and creating meaningful interactions, and having a solid understanding of social media is essential. From engaging with customers on various platforms to promoting products and services, social media provides a powerful tool for reaching and connecting with a wider audience. 

 

Additional information

Attracting young people to work in the retail industry and supporting smaller businesses in adopting technology and developing their skills are important challenges that need to be addressed. Although smaller businesses and their skills / reasons for working are very different to those within the larger stores. 

Some points that Bira looks at include: 

Promoting Retail as a Career Opportunity 

It's essential to showcase retail as a viable and rewarding career path. Highlighting the diverse range of roles and opportunities available in the industry, such as visual merchandising, customer service, buying, inventory management, or entrepreneurship. Engage with schools, colleges, and career guidance organisations to provide information about the potential for growth and advancement in retail careers.

Apprenticeship Reforms

Bira is lobbying for reforms in the apprenticeship scheme that can make it more accessible for independent retailers. This can involve advocating for simplified eligibility criteria, increased funding or grants, and tailored apprenticeship programs that cater specifically to the needs of smaller retail businesses.

Embracing Technology

Supporting smaller retailers in adopting and leveraging technology is crucial for their growth and success. Collaborating with government departments and industry bodies to provide training, workshops, or resources on using digital tools, e-commerce platforms, inventory management systems, customer relationship management (CRM) software, and social media marketing. Encouraging the development of digital skills among owners and employees through relevant training programs.

Grants and Funding

Work towards providing grants and funding opportunities that are accessible to smaller businesses. Lobby for grant programs that have less restrictive eligibility criteria and prioritise supporting independent retailers in adopting new technologies, improving efficiency, and enhancing their competitiveness. 

Collaboration with Government Departments

Engage in ongoing dialogues and collaborations with government departments such as the Department of Trade and Business and the Department of Education. Advocate for policies and initiatives that support the development of retail skills, provide financial incentives for training programs, and facilitate the integration of technology into small businesses.

Networking and Industry Support

Encourage networking and collaboration among small retailers by creating platforms or events where they can connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. Support industry associations and organisations that provide resources, training programs, and mentoring opportunities for independent retailers. 

 

By focusing on attracting young talent, advocating for apprenticeship reforms, facilitating technology adoption, and providing financial and educational support, Bira believes it is possible to enhance the skills and capabilities of both retail owners and employees in the independent sector, leading to improved productivity, growth, and competitiveness.