Retail jobs seen as 'unattractive'

While thousands of school leavers are poised to receive their A-level results tomorrow, the retail industry has expressed concern that parents and career advisers are discouraging young people from pursuing a career in retail.

Seventy-one per cent of parents with children aged between 12 and 19 believe a retail career is 'unattractive', according to a survey by Skillsmart Retail. This is despite the fact that 49 per cent still recognise the industry offers good training and career development opportunities.

Of the career advisers questioned, only 9 per cent felt retail was the best sector to work in, but 85 per cent agreed it developed skills that would be relevant in any workplace.

Skillsmart Retail chief operating officer Anne Seaman said: 'We urge parents and career advisers to recognise the benefits of a career in retail and support youngsters seeking to move into the sector.'