Retail’s Ripe for a Reaper
New numbers from Deputy – the world’s top workforce platform – show that retail jobs in the UK are still 5 % shy of pre‑pandemic levels. The sector’s steep fall is nothing short of a “big downer” that’s getting worse with every new robot and online store that pops up.
Night‑Owls Take the Spotlight
- Employees are grabbing gigs that pay better and offer more stability.
- Hospitality has emerged as the favorite sector, growing 2 % YoY thanks to London’s nightlife revival.
London’s night‑life is outpacing LA and NYC, according to The Big Shift 2025 – Deputy’s annual study that mixed data from 20+ million shifts. It’s a story about how, when, and where people choose to work (and how they choose to play).
Key Take‑aways from the Report
- 25 % of retail workers are considering leaving for fresher, better‑paying gigs.
- They’re also juggling multiple jobs to keep the lights on.
- Fast food, coffee shops, and sit‑down restaurants are getting a night‑time boost (31 %, 16 %, and 14 % respectively).
- In London, one in four consumer spend happens after dusk. That’s a huge shift in dining habits.
Micro‑Shifts: The New Cool Jersey
More than 40 % of shift workers say that micro‑shifts – short, structured slots that give more predictable pay and job safety – could be the answer to a more stable gig life. It’s a recipe that mixes flexibility with security – vibes that many workers are craving.
Quotes from the Big Bosses
Silvija Martincevic, CEO of Deputy: “Retail’s huge power is fading as tech and e‑commerce take over, pushing people to jobs that pay better – think hospitality, healthcare, or services. Meanwhile, London’s night‑life is booming, and companies are learning to meet the after‑dark demand.”
She added: “Micro‑shifts aren’t about less work; they’re smarter work that gives flexibility and pushes businesses to rethink workforce planning.”
Ready to Ride the Shift Wave?
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