Retail trade union Usdaw has launched a new blueprint for the future of retail work to ensure that retail jobs are better jobs.
The launch comes as retail continues to face one of the most challenging periods in history. Since 2018 nearly three-quarters of a million retail jobs have been lost, with over 75,000 store closures, as online retail grows.
Usdaw believes that retail staff need and deserve to be given a much better and fairer deal for the sector to prosper. Therefore, it is calling for a plan for the future of retail work based on:
- A new economic framework to support retail growth and drive investment in good quality retail jobs, by levelling business taxation between online and in-store retailers. Along with funding for local authorities to support their high streets.
- Better pay and secure work including a minimum wage of at least £12 per hour now as a step towards £15, improved Statutory Sick Pay, and protection of workers legislation.
- Retraining and upskilling for new technology and automation and the transition to net zero by reinstating the Union Learning Fund, a legal right to paid time off for retraining, and reforming the Apprenticeship Levy.
- Fair treatment and equality for all retail workers with more robust action from both employers and government to create a respectful, inclusive work environment within which every worker can thrive.
- Stronger protections for retail workers, including strengthened workplace rights and protections against redundancy.
Paddy Lillis, Usdaw General Secretary, said: “Usdaw is calling for a robust plan for the future of retail work that addresses both the immediate and urgent priorities facing the industry and staff, as well as wider measures to help deliver better jobs. We need a co-ordinated and inclusive approach, so we are urging government, retailers and all key stakeholders to engage with Usdaw.
“Only by working together can we help to deliver the better jobs retail workers need and deserve, while securing the future viability of the industry for the benefit of customers, workers, communities and our economy.”
A plan for the future of retail work: Ensuring retail jobs are better jobs full report can be downloaded here.
