The retail sector has experienced steady growth in recent years
Vacancies for retail sales assistants are frequently advertised because:
- it is a large industry with many roles
- the job is often seen as an entry-level position, and once people gain experience they move on to higher positions
- wages tend to be low, so people move on to better-paid roles.
According to the Census, 108,702 retail sales assistants and 1,464 pharmacy sales assistants worked in New Zealand in 2018.
Work flexibility and experience boost your chances
Chances of getting work as a retail sales assistant are best for those who:
- have some retail experience
- are flexible about their work hours (including working evenings and weekends).
Chances of finding work are also better between November and January, when retailers take on more staff to deal with the rush before and after Christmas.
Types of employers varied
More than half of those employed in the retail sector work in supermarkets and grocery stores.
Retail sales assistants also work for:
- department stores
- specialist clothing shops
- hardware, building and garden suppliers
- electronics goods stores
- motor vehicle and parts outlets
- food and beverage businesses.
