The Office for National Statistics reports that the UK had 2.73 million retail jobs in June 2025, down 97,000 from the same period last year and 393,000 fewer than in 2015. The four-quarter average shows 1.28 million full-time and 1.50 million part-time positions, with declines of 133,000 and 258,000 respectively over the past decade.
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Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, described the figures as "a stark warning," attributing job losses to rising National Insurance Contributions and National Living Wage costs, which together will add over £5 billion in expenses for the industry this year. She warned that the Employment Rights Bill and potential autumn budget measures could further reduce retail employment.
Dickinson emphasised that increasing regulatory and tax pressures could drive up prices, harm flexible local jobs, and exacerbate the cost-of-living crisis. She urged policymakers to consider the impact on employment when designing measures affecting the high street, highlighting the importance of protecting retail jobs for both workers and the broader economy.
More information:
BRC
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www.brc.org.uk
