Store owner (specialist shop), selling

What does a retail store owner in specialty trade do – tasks and working environment

A retail store owner in specialty trade with a sales role is responsible for both daily operations and sales in a specialized store. Tasks include leading and motivating staff, managing purchasing and inventory, creating customer relationships, and developing the store's assortment and marketing. The role often combines leadership with active selling on the shop floor, involving direct contact with customers and practical work. The working environment is characterized by a fast pace, varied tasks, and close collaboration with employees and suppliers. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are important qualities for success in the profession.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for retail store owners in specialty trade with sales responsibilities have steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 35,500 SEK per month, rising to 36 800 SEK in 2023. The latest figure from 2024 shows a further increase to 37 800 SEK per month. This represents a salary increase of approximately 6.5% over the three-year period. The positive trend can be explained by increased demand for leadership in retail, especially in specialized trade where expertise and customer service are highly valued. Salary is also influenced by competition for competent store managers and the fact that the role often requires both business acumen and practical experience. Women have had a slightly higher average salary than men during this period, which is uncommon in the industry and reflects a more equal salary development within the profession.

Retail store owner in specialty trade salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 37 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 41,000 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 227 SEK
• Women: 38 000 SEK/month (101% of men)
• Men: 37,500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Small variations between city and rural areas, but higher salaries occur in regions with strong retail presence.

Education and qualifications

To work as a retail store owner in specialty trade, at least a high school education is usually required, preferably with a focus on commerce or economics. Many have also supplemented their education with post-secondary courses in leadership, sales, or marketing. Practical experience from working in retail and leadership roles is often crucial for success, and it is common to start as a salesperson or department manager before taking over or opening your own store. Self-study and industry-specific training can also be valuable.

• High school education: Business and administration programs
• Post-secondary courses: Leadership, sales, marketing
• Practical experience: Previous work as a salesperson or department manager
• Certifications: Industry-specific training in retail
• Self-study: Online courses and networks within retail

Common benefits and compensation

Retail store owners in specialty trade often have access to various benefits beyond base salary. It is common with performance-based bonuses, staff discounts, wellness allowances, and pension contributions. Some employers also offer flexible working hours, skill development, and opportunities for further education in leadership and sales. Car benefits and insurance may be provided, especially in larger retail chains.

Competition and challenges

Competition within specialty trade is intense, especially in segments where e-commerce and larger chains pressure prices and margins. Retail store owners face challenges such as rapidly changing consumer behaviors, digitalization, and increased demands on customer experience. Finding and retaining competent staff is another recurring challenge, as well as managing seasonal variations in sales. The ability to adapt to new trends and work long-term on profitability and customer loyalty are crucial factors for success and growth in the profession.

Tips for those who want to become a retail store owner in specialty trade

To succeed as a retail store owner in specialty trade, it is good to be initiative-taking and willing to take responsibility for both business development and staff management. Good business sense and the ability to analyze sales figures help make informed decisions about assortment and campaigns. Service orientation and social skills are essential for building strong customer relationships and creating a pleasant store environment. Being flexible and resilient during busy periods, such as campaigns or holidays, is beneficial. A continuous desire to develop and stay updated on industry trends provides competitive advantages. Good communication skills are also important for leading staff and setting shared goals. Finally, perseverance is key, as success often requires long-term effort and patience.

Key facts about retail store owners in specialty trade

• Education level: High school education, often supplemented with shorter post-secondary courses
• Work environment: Retail environment with combined leadership and sales
• Typical work form: Full-time, sometimes with irregular hours
• Demand: 550 job openings within the profession
• Gender distribution: Women have a slightly higher average salary than men

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a retail store owner in specialty trade, there are good opportunities to advance to larger stores, regional manager, or start additional businesses. Specialization within purchasing, staff development, or marketing is also common. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, future prospects remain stable, especially for those combining business acumen with digital skills and customer focus. The availability of job openings is good, with 550 current positions within the profession, indicating ongoing demand for competent store managers and sales leaders in specialty trade.

Common questions about retail store owners in specialty trade

• What does a retail store owner (specialty trade), selling, earn?
  - The average salary is 37 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and store size.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 101% of what men do within the profession.
• What education is required to become a retail store owner in specialty trade?
  - High school education is most common, often supplemented with post-secondary courses and practical experience.
• What is the job market like for retail store owners?
  - There are currently 550 job openings in the profession, indicating strong demand.
• What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
  - Competition from e-commerce, customer service demands, and finding the right staff are some of the major challenges.
• What benefits are common beyond salary?
  - Common benefits include bonuses, discounts, wellness allowances, and skill development.
• What is the highest salary for a retail store owner in specialty trade?
  - The highest salary is 41,000 SEK per month and is earned by a woman with a high school education.