Wholesale agent

What does a Wholesale Trade Agent do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Wholesale Trade Agent acts as an intermediary between manufacturers and resellers or other companies within the wholesale sector. The tasks involve identifying business opportunities, negotiating contracts, managing customer relationships, and coordinating logistics solutions. The role often involves extensive contact with both national and international clients and suppliers, where communication and the ability to build long-term relationships are crucial. The work environment is largely office-based, but travel occurs, especially for larger deals or trade shows. Modern technology and digital business systems are used daily to streamline workflows and follow up on deals.

Salary development over time

The salary of a Wholesale Trade Agent has shown a clear positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,100 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, the average salary increased to 37,900 SEK, which corresponds to an increase of about 2.2%. The strongest increase is observed between 2023 and 2024, when the average salary rose to 41 100 kr – an increase of approximately 8.5%. This salary development reflects an increased demand for qualified agents in wholesale trade, as well as a certain shortage of specialized skills, which drives up wages. At the same time, digitalization and demands for broader business knowledge have contributed to employers being willing to pay more for the right expertise.

Wholesale Trade Agent salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,900 SEK/month (female, private sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 50,000 SEK/month (male, private employee, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage (average): 247 SEK
• Women: 38900 SEK/month (90% of men's salary)
• Men: 43 000 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a Wholesale Trade Agent, a typical requirement is upper secondary education with a focus on trade, economics, or logistics, but many employers prefer post-secondary studies, for example in business administration or international trade. Practical experience in sales, logistics, or shipping is often advantageous and can weigh heavily in hiring decisions. In addition to formal education, good language skills and digital competence are valued.

• Upper secondary education: Trade, economics, or logistics (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: For example, business administration or marketing (2–3 years)
• Certifications/courses: Business law, logistics, international trade
• Internship or trainee: Highly meritorious in wholesale or trading companies
• Language skills: English and possibly additional languages are often required

Common benefits and compensations

Wholesale Trade Agents are often offered variable compensation such as commissions or bonuses linked to sales results, in addition to a fixed base salary. Company cars, wellness allowances, pension contributions, and flexible working hours are common benefits, especially within larger companies. In some cases, opportunities for further training and international travel are included in employment conditions.

Competition and challenges

The competition within wholesale trade is significant, especially in markets where price pressure and digitalization rapidly change the rules of the game. The industry demands strong business acumen, the ability to quickly adapt to new technological solutions, and a strong customer focus. Increasing globalization means agents need to navigate complex regulations and manage cultural differences. Another challenge is maintaining long-term relationships in an environment where renegotiations and new players are common. Success requires continuous skills development and a good understanding of market trends and logistics solutions.

Tips for those who want to become a Wholesale Trade Agent

To succeed as a Wholesale Trade Agent, it is good to combine business acumen with strong social skills. An analytical mind helps identify new business opportunities, while good communication skills facilitate negotiations and networking. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial as market conditions change rapidly. A strong drive and the ability to work independently give an advantage when managing multiple deals simultaneously. Staying updated on market trends and investing in continuous skills development increases the chances of success in the profession.

Key facts about Wholesale Trade Agents

• Education level: Recommended upper secondary or post-secondary education
• Work environment: Office-based with travel elements
• Typical work form: Full-time, sometimes with variable compensation
• Demand: 550 job openings within the occupational group
• Special skills: Business negotiations and logistics

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, a Wholesale Trade Agent can advance to more specialized roles such as Key Account Manager, sales manager, or logistics manager. There is also the possibility to start their own agency or take on consulting assignments within business development and trade. According to the Employment Service's forecasts, no exact assessment is made for the profession due to limited data, but there are 550 job openings for freight forwarders and transport brokers. Digitalization and increased international trade are expected to keep demand high, especially for agents with broad skills in logistics and business negotiations.

Frequently asked questions about Wholesale Trade Agents

• What does a Wholesale Trade Agent earn?
  - A Wholesale Trade Agent has an average salary of 41 100 kr per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and sector.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Men earn on average 43 000 kr and women 38900 kr, which means women earn about 90% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What education is required to become a Wholesale Trade Agent?
  - The most common education is upper secondary in trade or economics, but post-secondary studies in business administration or international trade are recommended for the best prospects.
• What are the career opportunities?
  - After some years of experience, one can advance to roles such as Key Account Manager, sales manager, or start their own agency.
• What benefits are common for Wholesale Trade Agents?
  - Common benefits include commissions, company car, wellness allowance, pension contributions, and sometimes opportunities for further training.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - There are no available data on regional salary differences for Wholesale Trade Agents at present.
• What are the future outlooks for Wholesale Trade Agents?
  - The Employment Service makes no exact assessment for the profession, but there remains a strong demand within the occupational group, especially for those with broad skills.