How can retailers navigate the crisis?
Head of the retail division at Everpool Recruitment Samantha Whitman argues that retailers are “trying to adapt” to the situation by “providing more structured entry-level training, shorter, more flexible onboarding, stronger links with colleges, and in-house work placements”.
“The retailers that respond now will be those that treat young workers as a long-term investment, not just an immediate cost,” she explains.
“Building clear progression routes, offering mentoring and making part-time roles more attractive could help retailers protect service standards while developing the next generation of retail talent.”
However, Todaro argues that although “retailers are doing all they can to navigate the issues they are facing” the “onus lies with the government”.
“Casual employment is a vital entry point to the workforce, building transferable life skills and enabling independence amongst young people,” he says.
“Not only does current policy conflict with the government’s goals to grow the economy and get more NEETs into employment, it also penalises UK businesses that are finding it increasingly more difficult to function successfully in an economy burdened by restrictive legislation.”
Gravelle concludes: “Ultimately, rising costs are forcing retailers to think more commercially about workforce planning and ROI.
“But if the sector becomes too cautious with entry-level hiring, it risks solving a short-term cost challenge alongside creating a long-term talent shortage. They must get this important balance right.”
To read the full published comments by Daniel Todaro, CEO, Gekko Group, please visit Retail Gazette