We’ve listened 

In many conversations with retailers, we’ve heard the same thing – that a key challenge for our sector is a shortage of workforce talent and the perception that there isn’t a career in the retail sector. At Retail NZ, we know the value of the retail sector for careers, skills and communities so the concept of the opposing perception is concerning. 

We want to change the narrative by finding out more about what people’s perceptions are of retail as a career both in the general population and for retailers themselves. 

As a result, Retail NZ is leading a project to address any perceived challenges and perceptions by finding solutions that will benefit the sector. 

Our intended project outcomes: 

• improved perceptions of retail careers 
• improved understanding of the career options and earning ability available within retail 
• a greater pool of talent is available for the retail sector 
• an ability to demonstrate to government that the sector may need additional interventions to secure talent 
• potential identification of viability of micro credentials for retail

This project contains multiple elements – including a substantive research project which will lead us to launch a campaign, and influencer programme to drive a change in attitudes to careers in the retail sector with New Zealanders.  

A Steering Group has been formed with members of industry. The Steering Groups role is to provide consultation and feedback. Retail NZ and Ringa Hora will be in this group. We welcome the following industry stakeholders: 

We welcome the support of Ringa Hora – Workforce Development Council for Services who have enabled this project by providing a portion of initial funding. 

If you have any questions about this project, please contact us here.