Methodology

The research was completed by 150 independent retail businesses through a postal survey and a mystery shop experience. The findings from both methods of research form this document, the sub-region's first Workforce Development Plan for the retail sector.

The postal survey covered the following areas:
General information on retail businesses in Gloucestershire

Development needs of the business proprietors and their employees

Preferred methods of receiving business support

Knowledge and usage of training providers/local trade associations

The mystery shop experiences researched:
In-store standards

Levels of customer service and staff knowledge

Promotional materials

Store layout

Key findings of the survey

• Retailers want training to take place within the workplace

• Training needs to respond to local issues

• Business planning and the use of IT were highlighted as skills priorities

• 71% of businesses that responded have been operating for more than 3 years

• 43% of businesses had not conducted any training within the last year

Recommended areas of focus from the mystery shops

•Increase promotional materials within the stores

•Encourage staff to upsell to increase sales

•Improve access for wheelchairs/pushchairs

•Produce more innovative window displays

•Improve security measures

Skills for Life - Make it your business

The free Employer Toolkit is a useful resource to help all businesses tackle skills shortages. The toolkit is designed to help employers address issues, face challenges and find solutions to business problems arising from poor literacy and numeracy skills. For more information on the toolkit click here.