Retailers are being urged to take a leading role in addressing Britain's youth employment crisis by creating more opportunities for young people to enter the workforce, develop essential skills and build lasting careers. The call comes from HIT Training, part of The Opportunity Provider (TOP), as it launches its national 'First Job. Future Career.' campaign into the retail sector.
Central to the campaign is 'Commit to Youth', an initiative encouraging employers to make measurable commitments to creating opportunities for young people, supported by appropriate training and clear pathways for progression. The launch comes as the government prepares to publish the next stage of Alan Milburn's 'Independent Review into Young People and Work', following his interim findings earlier this year.
Retail as a career starter sector
With an estimated 981,000 young people aged 16–24 not in education, employment or training, HIT Training believes retail should be recognised as one of Britain's most important career starter sectors. For generations, the industry has launched countless careers, providing accessible routes into employment, helping young people develop confidence, communication, teamwork and commercial skills.
Mike Worley, managing director of HIT Training, said: "For generations, young people have gained their first experience of the workplace on the shop floor, developing confidence, communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving abilities and a sense of responsibility. These are invaluable, transferable skills that can provide the foundations for an entire working life."
Worley added: "Of course, many go on to become store managers, regional directors and business leaders within retail itself. Others take those skills into different industries and professions. Both are hugely positive outcomes, and we should celebrate the role retail has played in helping them take that first step."
Financial incentives for apprentices
The campaign also highlights the significant financial incentives available to employers taking on young apprentices. Under current government arrangements in England, eligible apprentices aged 16–24 can have 100% of their training and assessment costs funded, up to the relevant funding limit. Employers who do not pay the apprenticeship levy may also qualify for a £2,000 hiring payment for eligible new apprentices in this age group, while additional incentives are available for Foundation Apprenticeships.
Employers can also benefit from relief on National Insurance contributions for apprentices under 25, subject to earnings thresholds. There is also a 16-18 bonus of £1,000 for all employers of apprentices aged 16-18. HIT Training believes greater awareness and take-up of this support could help more businesses overcome some of the financial barriers to investing in the next generation.
Addressing retailer pressures
The campaign recognises the considerable pressures facing retailers, including challenging trading conditions, rising employment costs and the need to maintain productivity. It also highlights the role apprenticeships can play in helping employers develop both new recruits and existing employees, strengthening workforce capability and creating opportunities for progression.
Worley continued: "When an existing employee progresses into a supervisory or management role, that can create an opportunity for someone else to take their first step into employment. We shouldn't be asking retailers to choose between investing in their existing people and supporting the next generation. Both are essential to building a sustainable workforce."
Through 'Commit to Youth', retailers are encouraged to review recruitment practices, remove unnecessary experience requirements, consider Foundation and entry apprenticeships, provide appropriate workplace support and establish visible career pathways. HIT Training is calling on retailers of all sizes to consider what practical commitment they could make to helping more young people access meaningful employment.
