Retailers, tobacco products etc.

What does a retail salesperson within tobacco products do? – Tasks and work environment

A retail salesperson within tobacco products primarily works with selling tobacco and related goods to private customers. Tasks include customer service, cash handling, stock replenishment, inventory, and advising on product selection. The profession often requires working in a retail environment with varying hours, including evenings and weekends. The work environment can be intense, especially during high customer traffic, demanding accuracy, service orientation, and responsibility, as sales of tobacco products are strictly regulated and age checks are mandatory.

Salary development over time

The salary for retail salespersons within tobacco products has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,800 SEK per month, rising to 32 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 33 500 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.8% over three years. The positive salary trend can largely be explained by increased focus on skills and experience in retail, along with some adjustments to meet inflation and labor market changes. Despite an oversupply of labor, wages have developed steadily, likely due to the specialized knowledge required for selling tobacco products and the need for reliable staff capable of handling legal requirements and customer interactions responsibly.

Retail salesperson within tobacco products salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,100 SEK/month (female, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Highest salary: 37,900 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, post-secondary education of 3 years or more)
• Hourly wage: 201 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Women earn: 33 100 SEK/month (96% of men’s salary)
• Men earn: 34 300 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data on geographic variations is not available for this occupation

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a retail salesperson within tobacco products usually goes through high school education, preferably with a focus on commerce and service. Generally, higher education is not required for employment, but employers value experience in retail, good service skills, and knowledge of current regulations regarding tobacco sales. Some workplaces offer internal training on product range and legislation.

• High school education: Business and administration program (3 years)
• Internal courses: Training in age verification and cash handling
• Internship: Workplace-based learning or introduction in a store
• Prerequisites: Good Swedish, basic math skills, and service experience
• Recommendation: Experience from retail and good knowledge of tobacco regulations are advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Retail salespersons within tobacco products are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to sick pay, holiday pay, and overtime allowances for work in evenings and on weekends. Staff discounts, wellness contributions, and sometimes bonus systems linked to sales are also common. Some employers offer further training opportunities and pension contributions.

Competition and challenges

The market for retail salespersons within tobacco products is characterized by high competition, especially since the recruitment situation nationwide is marked by an oversupply of labor. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, which means limited opportunities for new employment within the profession. Challenges include managing strict legal requirements, maintaining good service despite time pressure, and staying updated on regulatory changes regarding tobacco sales. Flexibility, accuracy, and resilience are crucial for success in the role.

Tips for those wishing to become a retail salesperson within tobacco products

To succeed as a retail salesperson within tobacco products, it is important to be meticulous and responsible, especially regarding age checks and handling regulated products. A strong service attitude facilitates customer interactions, as many customers return regularly. Flexibility is key, since working hours can vary and the pace may be high. Being resilient helps during busy times and when multiple tasks need to be managed simultaneously. Finally, good communication and teamwork skills are beneficial, as a positive atmosphere in the store contributes to both job satisfaction and customer satisfaction.

Key facts about retail salespersons within tobacco products

• Education level: High school, preferably in commerce and service
• Work environment: Retail environment with varying hours
• Employment types: Full-time, part-time, and hourly employment are common
• Demand: Limited opportunities for new jobs nationwide
• Special skills: Age verification and legislation regarding tobacco sales

Career paths and future prospects

After gaining a few years of experience as a retail salesperson within tobacco products, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as store manager, department head, or specialist in tobacco and gaming products. Some choose to further their education in sales, purchasing, or leadership to broaden their career options. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, demand for retail salespersons in grocery retail, including tobacco products, is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with limited new job opportunities nationwide and an oversupply of labor. Nonetheless, approximately 550 job openings within the profession indicate that the labor market remains active, despite high competition.

Common questions about retail salespersons within tobacco products

• What does a retail salesperson within tobacco products earn?
  - The average salary is 33 500 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and employment type.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn 96% of what men do. Men’s average salary is 34 300 SEK and women’s 33 100 SEK.
• What education is required to become a retail salesperson within tobacco products?
  - High school education, preferably in commerce and service, is most common. Practical experience is highly valued.
• What is the job market like for retail salespersons within tobacco products?
  - There is an oversupply of labor and limited opportunities for new jobs nationwide, but vacancies still exist.
• What are the duties of a retail salesperson within tobacco products?
  - Customer service, cash handling, stock replenishment, inventory, and responsibility for age verification.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Collective agreements, overtime pay, staff discounts, wellness contributions, and sometimes bonus systems.
• How has the salary development been over time?
  - The salary has increased positively over the past three years, with an increase of nearly 9% since 2022.