The UK retail sector had 2.81 million jobs in September 2024, down 40,000 from last year and 225,000 from five years ago, per ONS.
Despite being the largest private employer, the sector faces challenges from automation, outsourcing, and rising costs.
BRC stated pay growth of 8.5 per cent in 2024, with Budget wage and NI changes adding £5 billion (~$6.25 billion) in costs, risking further job cuts.