Shop assistant, specialist shop

What does a retail salesperson in specialty trade do? – Tasks and work environment

A retail salesperson in specialty trade is responsible for providing service and guidance to customers within specialized stores, such as clothing stores, sports stores, or electronics stores. Tasks include receiving and displaying goods, handling the cash register, maintaining order in the store, and helping customers find the right product based on their needs. Upselling, product knowledge, and follow-up on campaigns are often included. The work environment is characterized by a social climate with a lot of customer contact, varying working hours, and periods of high tempo, especially during campaigns or weekends.

Salary development over time

The salary development for retail salespeople in specialty trade has been stable but with a clear increase in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,900 SEK per month, which increased to 31 900 SEK in 2023 and further to 33 800 SEK in 2024. This represents a salary increase of approximately 9.4% over three years. This development reflects a combination of collective agreement-regulated raises, increased demand for service staff, and the impact of inflation on wage formation. There is some variation depending on experience and employer, but overall the profession has seen a positive wage trend.

Retail Salesperson, specialty trade salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,200 SEK/month (men), 32,100 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 36,300 SEK/month (men), 35,800 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 203 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of men's salaries
• Regional differences: Highest salaries are found in the regional sector, lower salaries in the private sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a retail salesperson in specialty trade, most often no formal higher education is required, but a high school education with a focus on commerce or sales is advantageous. Many employers value experience in service professions and interest in the current product area. Practical skills, social ability, and teamwork are highly valued. Further training and internal courses may be available depending on the store's focus.

• High school: Business and Administration program, 3 years
• Internship: Often possible during education or via employment agency
• Internal training: Common in larger chains
• Certifications: Rarely required, but some chains may offer their own courses
• Prerequisites: Service skills and product interest are advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, retail salespeople in specialty trade often have access to staff discounts, bonus programs for good sales, wellness contributions, and sometimes evening and weekend premiums. Employment conditions are often governed by collective agreements, providing security regarding vacation, pension, and insurance. The scope of benefits varies between employers and store chains.

Competition and challenges

Competition for permanent full-time positions as retail salespeople in specialty trade can be tough, especially in metropolitan areas or popular store chains. Many are offered part-time or temporary positions, which can lead to income and schedule insecurity. Digitalization and increased e-commerce also impact the industry, raising the bar for service and product knowledge. To stand out, engagement, flexibility, and interest in enhancing the customer experience are often required. There are also reports of recruitment difficulties in some locations, which can create opportunities for newcomers to the labor market.

Tips for those wanting to become a retail salesperson in specialty trade

To succeed as a retail salesperson in specialty trade, it is good to be outgoing and service-oriented, as the profession involves daily contact with many different customers. A strong drive and initiative are appreciated by employers, especially when it comes to product display and upselling. Showing curiosity and quickly learning about the store's range is a clear advantage, as good product knowledge often leads to happier customers and better sales figures. The ability to collaborate is important, as tasks are often performed in teams. Stress management and flexibility are required to handle periods of high workload, such as during sales or seasonal periods. Finally, accuracy and reliability are valued, especially for cash register and inventory management.

Key facts about Retail Salesperson in specialty trade

• Salary range: 31,200–36,300 SEK/month
• Educational requirements: High school recommended, but not always mandatory
• Employment type: Common with part-time and temporary positions
• Demand: 550 job openings in Sweden, stable outlook
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years as a retail salesperson in specialty trade, opportunities for advancement include roles as team leader, store manager, or specialist in purchasing and assortment. Some choose to develop further within sales and customer responsibility, while others move into training or supervisory roles within the store chain. According to the Employment Service's forecasts, the prospects for employment in the profession remain strong, with demand expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. However, there is a paradoxical recruitment situation, where many work part-time while employers sometimes struggle to find the right skills. Overall, the profession offers good opportunities for those seeking a long-term career in retail.

Frequently asked questions about Retail Salesperson in specialty trade

• What does a retail salesperson earn in specialty trade?
  - A retail salesperson in specialty trade has an average salary of 33 800 SEK per month.
• What is the hourly wage for a retail salesperson?
  - The hourly wage for a retail salesperson in specialty trade is on average 203 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 96% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a retail salesperson in specialty trade?
  - High school education in commerce is recommended, but there is also the opportunity to learn the profession on the job.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The outlook is stable with good job opportunities and unchanged demand according to the Employment Service.
• What career opportunities are available for retail salespeople?
  - Advancement to team leader, store manager, or specialist in purchasing and assortment is possible.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, the highest salaries are found in the regional sector and lower salaries in the private sector.