Business manager (specialist shop), selling

What does a retail manager in trade do – tasks and work environment

A retail manager in trade with sales responsibility leads and manages the daily operations of a store within specialist or trade retail. Tasks include staff management, scheduling, budget responsibility, purchasing and inventory management, and ensuring sales targets are met. Customer contact is central, and the role often involves active sales, advising, and developing the store's assortment based on customer needs. The work environment is dynamic and can be characterized by a high pace, especially during campaigns and peak seasons, requiring flexibility and problem-solving skills.

Salary development over time

The salary development for retail managers in trade has been clearly positive in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,500 SEK per month, increasing in 2023 to 36 800 SEK. The latest measured level in 2024 is 37 800 SEK per month, which corresponds to an increase of over 6.5 % over the three-year period. Salary increases have been driven by a combination of higher demand for experienced store managers, changes in retail, and increased requirements for business acumen and digital skills. The salary level is also influenced by store size, geographic location, and industry development, where increased competition for skilled managers has contributed to higher wages.

Retail manager salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 37 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,600 SEK/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education <3 years)
• Highest salary: 41,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, secondary education <2 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 227 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women 38 000 SEK/month, men 37,500 SEK/month (women earn 101 % of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but city locations tend to offer higher salaries

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a retail manager in trade is often flexible but builds on a combination of upper secondary education, work experience, and leadership skills. Many have backgrounds in commerce and administration, and it is common to start as a salesperson or store clerk before advancing to a managerial role. Specialized courses in leadership, economics, and sales can be advantageous and improve employment chances.

• Upper secondary education: Business and administration program, 3 years
• Post-secondary courses: Leadership, store economics, sales
• Practical experience: Previous work in retail, preferably with responsibility
• Prerequisites: Often 2–5 years of experience in retail
• Certifications: Can be advantageous, especially in sales and leadership

Common benefits and compensation

Retail managers in trade often have access to performance-based bonuses, employee discounts, wellness allowances, and sometimes occupational pensions beyond base salary. In some cases, training support, flexible hours, and opportunities for further development within the company are offered. Company mobile phones and work clothing may also be included as benefits depending on the employer and store chain.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as retail managers in trade is relatively high, especially in larger cities and within attractive store chains. The role requires not only good sales results but also strong leadership and the ability to handle rapid changes in the industry. Digitalization, changing consumer behaviors, and increased profitability demands mean that retail managers must continuously develop their skills. Challenges may also include staff turnover, budget responsibility, and meeting high expectations from customers and company management.

Tips for aspiring retail managers in trade

To succeed as a retail manager in trade, sales, it is good to combine business acumen with a genuine interest in people. Being communicative and attentive facilitates both customer contact and staff leadership. Engagement and initiative are important qualities demonstrated by taking responsibility and actively contributing to the store's development. Flexibility and stress tolerance help during unexpected changes and campaigns. The ability to analyze sales figures and make quick decisions is crucial for achieving set goals. Continuous education and staying updated on industry trends provide competitive advantages. Finally, a structured work approach is essential for managing both administrative and operational tasks efficiently.

Key facts about retail managers in trade, sales

• Education level: Upper secondary education most common, supplemented with experience
• Work environment: Retail environment with high pace and varied tasks
• Work form: Often full-time, sometimes evenings and weekends
• Demand: 550 available positions according to current statistics
• Special skills: Leadership, sales, inventory management, and customer service

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are good opportunities to advance to larger stores, regional manager, or other leadership roles within retail. Many move on to specialist roles in purchasing, marketing, or business development. According to the Employment Service, the demand for retail managers in trade is expected to remain stable, with a large number of available jobs on the labor market. Digitalization and changing consumer behaviors mean that those with experience in e-commerce and modern store technology have especially good future prospects. Skills development and leadership ability will continue to be crucial for career advancement in the industry.

Frequently asked questions about retail managers in trade, sales

• What does a retail manager (trade), sales earn?
  - The average salary is 37 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and store.
• Are there significant salary differences between men and women?
  - Women earn an average of 38 000 SEK while men have 37,500 SEK, which means women earn 101 % of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a retail manager in trade?
  - Most commonly, upper secondary education in commerce and a few years of experience in retail.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand is stable with 550 available positions, and there are good opportunities for advancement.
• What is the work environment like?
  - Work takes place in a retail environment with a high pace, varied tasks, and a strong customer focus.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Bonuses, employee discounts, wellness grants, occupational pension, and sometimes further training are often offered.
• How does the store's location affect the salary?
  - Stores in city areas tend to offer slightly higher salaries compared to smaller towns.