Retailer, textile, shoe, leather

What does a retail salesperson in textiles, shoes, and leather do? – Tasks and work environment

A retail salesperson in textiles, shoes, and leather works to provide service to customers in stores selling clothing, footwear, bags, and other leather goods. Tasks include welcoming and assisting customers, advising on products and materials, unpacking deliveries, merchandising, and maintaining order in the store. Often, responsibilities also include cash register work, inventory, and sometimes basic stock management. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, especially during sales and seasonal promotions, and takes place mainly indoors in store premises. Good social skills and an interest in fashion and materials are important qualities for the profession.

Salary development over time

Salaries for retail salespersons in textiles, shoes, and leather have shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,900 SEK per month, increasing to 31 900 SEK in 2023. By 2024, the salary has continued to rise to 33 800 SEK, which is a total increase of nearly 9.4% over the period. This growth can be linked to increased demand for service staff and a generally strong labor market in retail, where experience and knowledge of product ranges are increasingly valued. The consistent salary development also indicates that the industry has adapted to inflation and cost levels, while employers aim to retain competent staff in a competitive sector.

Retail salesperson, textiles, shoes, leather – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,200 SEK (male, private sector employee, less than 9 years of education); 32,100 SEK (female)
• Highest salary: 36,300 SEK (male, regional sector, up to 2 years of high school); 35,800 SEK (female)
• Hourly wage (average): 203 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 34 700 SEK, women 33 200 SEK (women earn 96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salaries vary depending on sector and education level, but national averages apply to most employment.

Education and qualifications

The path to working as a retail salesperson in textiles, shoes, and leather is often flexible and rarely requires long formal education. Many employers prefer high school education, preferably with a focus on commerce or sales, but onboarding at the workplace is common. Practical experience and customer interaction are highly valued, and some employers offer internal training to enhance product knowledge and service skills.

• High school education: Commerce and administration program, 3 years
• Internship: Workplace-based learning or internships during education are appreciated
• Internal training: Introduction and product training are often provided by the employer
• Courses: Courses in sales, service, and cash handling are advantageous
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of Swedish and sometimes English, along with an interest in fashion and materials

Common benefits and compensations

Retail salespersons in textiles, shoes, and leather are often offered employee discounts, overtime pay for evening and weekend work, and opportunities for bonuses or commissions based on sales. Some employers also provide wellness allowances, training opportunities, and pension contributions according to collective agreements.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs in textile, shoe, and leather stores can be high, especially in attractive city centers or larger shopping malls. Many view the role as an entry point into working life, which results in relatively high turnover. At the same time, high demands are placed on service skills, flexibility, and the ability to handle stressful situations. Shared working hours and weekend work are common, which can be challenging for some. To stand out in the job market, social skills and product knowledge are essential, as well as the ability to quickly adapt to new routines and changing customer flows.

Tips for aspiring retail salespersons in textiles, shoes, and leather

To succeed as a retail salesperson in textiles, shoes, and leather, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in fashion and materials, as this makes it easier to provide engaging and relevant advice to customers. Being attentive and service-oriented is crucial, as customer interactions often determine whether visitors return. Flexibility and stress tolerance are also important, since the pace can be high and tasks varied throughout the day. The ability to collaborate and create a positive team atmosphere is valued by employers, along with accuracy in stock management and cash register work to ensure daily security. Showing initiative and willingness to learn new systems and products also increases opportunities for advancement within the company.

Key facts about retail salespersons in textiles, shoes, and leather

• Educational requirements: High school education recommended, but not mandatory
• Work environment: Retail setting with high pace and customer contact
• Work form: Often part-time or shift work, evenings and weekends common
• Demand: 550 available jobs nationwide
• Special skills: Product knowledge in textiles, shoes, and leather appreciated

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as a retail salesperson in textiles, shoes, and leather, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as store manager, department head, or specialist in purchasing and assortment. Some choose to further their education in commerce and sales to move into larger retail chains or work in visual merchandising. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts indicate strong employment prospects, with demand expected to remain stable over the next five years. However, recruitment often faces a shortage of full-time staff, as many work part-time. Overall, career paths are diverse, and development opportunities within retail remain good.

Frequently asked questions about retail salespersons in textiles, shoes, and leather

• What does a retail salesperson in textiles, shoes, and leather earn?
  - The average salary is 33 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and educational level.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 34 700 SEK and women 33 200 SEK, which means women earn approximately 96% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to work as a retail salesperson in textiles, shoes, and leather?
  - High school education, preferably in commerce, is recommended but not always a formal requirement. Practical experience is valuable.
• What does the job market look like for retail salespersons in textiles, shoes, and leather?
  - Opportunities are plentiful with 550 available jobs nationwide and demand expected to stay stable over the next five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What are common benefits for retail salespersons in this industry?
  - Benefits often include employee discounts, overtime pay, wellness allowances, and sometimes bonuses or commissions.
• What does a typical workday look like for a retail salesperson in textiles, shoes, and leather?
  - The workday includes customer service, cash register duties, stock replenishment, visual merchandising, and sometimes inventory management.
• Is there potential for career development?
  - Yes, after a few years of experience, one can advance to roles such as store manager or specialized positions within store operations and purchasing.