Salesman, professional store

What does a sales associate in a trade store do? – Tasks and work environment

A sales associate in a trade store works with selling specialized goods and services to companies and professional customers. Tasks include customer advice, order management, stock work, product display, and sometimes quotation preparation. The role requires extensive product knowledge, as customers often have specific needs and expect expert service. The work environment is often a store – sometimes with stock handling – and the pace can be high, especially during peak seasons or promotional periods. Contact with both returning and new customers is a central part of the job, and the sales associate often needs to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Salary development over time

The salary for sales associates in trade stores has developed steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,900 SEK per month, increasing to 31 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 33 800 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 9.4% over three years. This growth can be linked to increased demand for specialized skills in retail trade, as well as general salary adjustments in the labor market. Salary development has also been influenced by inflation adjustments and a greater focus on qualified sales roles within trade stores. Despite stability, some variation exists depending on region, education level, and employer.

Sales associate, trade store salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,200 SEK/month (male, private sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 36,300 SEK/month (male, regional sector, secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 203 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 33 200 SEK, men 34 700 SEK (96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on workplace and geographic area, but detailed statistics are lacking.

Education and qualifications

Sales associates in trade stores often have a high school education, preferably with a focus on commerce or technology depending on the store's range. Industry-specific courses and internal training are common, and employers value previous experience in sales or customer service. Internships and trainee programs are common, especially for younger applicants. Self-study and digital training can be a supplement, especially for staying updated on new products and techniques.

• High school education: Business and administration program or technical program (3 years)
• Industry-specific courses: For example, product knowledge, stock management, and customer interaction
• Internship/Trainee: Common when hiring young or new entrants in the industry
• Certifications: May be available in certain specialized areas, such as electrical or plumbing
• Prerequisites: Often a high school diploma, but personal suitability and experience are highly valued

Common benefits and compensation

Sales associates in trade stores are often offered benefits such as staff discounts, bonuses linked to sales targets, wellness allowances, and sometimes pension contributions beyond statutory requirements. Some employers also offer training support, occupational health services, and flexible working hours if needed. Compensation models can vary between fixed salary and variable components depending on the store and employer.

Competition and challenges

The job market for sales associates in trade stores is generally good, with 550 available jobs within the profession. At the same time, recruitment difficulties are reported, especially for roles requiring high technical knowledge or specialist skills. Many positions are part-time, which can affect income and career development. Competition for the most attractive positions is high, and employers often seek candidates with excellent product knowledge and customer focus. Digitalization and e-commerce are creating new demands for flexibility and the ability to handle both physical and digital sales. Therefore, sales associates need to continuously develop their skills to stay relevant in the job market.

Tips for those who want to become sales associates in trade stores

To succeed as a sales associate in a trade store, it is good to be outgoing and genuinely motivated to help customers find the right solutions. Being attentive and able to ask the right questions facilitates sales and strengthens customer relationships. Precision is important, especially in order processing and stock handling, to reduce errors. An interest in products and a desire to learn new things makes it easier to act as an advisor and build trust. Flexibility and resilience are crucial during busy periods, and teamwork skills are valued since the work is often done in teams. Finally, having a positive attitude contributes to a good work environment and satisfied customers.

Key facts about sales associates in trade stores

• Education level: High school education most common
• Work environment: Store environment with stock handling
• Typical employment: Full-time or part-time, sometimes shift work
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Special skills: Product knowledge and customer advising

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as a sales associate in a trade store, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as store manager, team leader, or specialist within the range. Some choose to move to wholesale or supplier roles, while others develop into purchasing or training roles internally. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate that the job market for retail salespersons in trade – including trade stores – will remain stable with great opportunities for employment going forward. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, but competition for specialist roles and full-time positions may be high. Digitalization and technological changes also create new career paths for those willing to develop within the industry.

Common questions about sales associates in trade stores

• What does a sales associate in a trade store earn?
  - An average salary is 33 800 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and employer.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, men earn on average 34 700 SEK and women 33 200 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What education is needed to work as a sales associate in a trade store?
  - The most common is a high school education in commerce or technology, but experience and industry knowledge are often valued highly.
• How does the job market look for sales associates in trade stores?
  - Opportunities are good with many available positions, but competition can be tough for full-time roles.
• What career opportunities are available within the profession?
  - There is potential to advance to store manager, team leader, or specialist roles after a few years in the field.
• What does a typical workday look like?
  - The workday includes customer service, sales, order management, and some stock handling, often at a fast pace.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a sales associate in a trade store?
  - The highest salary is 36,300 SEK and the lowest 31,200 SEK, depending on experience, sector, and education.