The retail sector in Singapore is set for a positive shift in 2025. According to Straits Times News, the Tripartite Cluster for Retail Industry announced that lower-wage retail workers will receive an annual pay increase of up to 6% under the Progressive Wage Model (PWM) over the next three years. This isn’t just a salary boost — it’s a signal that retail work is being recognised as a valued, sustainable career path.

Whether you’re new to the workforce, considering a career change, or looking to advance in your current role, now is the perfect time to explore opportunities in Singapore’s retail industry.

Why the Wage Uplift Matters

The PWM links wage growth to skills training, meaning employees not only earn more but also gain relevant competencies to excel in their roles. This creates a win-win:

• For workers – Higher pay, better skills, and improved career mobility.
• For employers – A more skilled, motivated workforce and stronger staff retention.

Government co-funding will also help businesses adopt these wage changes without slowing down hiring, making the retail sector even more dynamic in the coming years.

Retail Roles in Demand

Retail in Singapore is evolving beyond traditional shopfronts, creating a wide variety of career paths:

• Retail Assistance / Sales Advisors – Engage customers, recommend products, and drive sales.
• Store Operations Staff – Keep day-to-day operations, merchandising, and inventory in check.
• Visual Merchandisers – Design attractive displays to enhance customer experience.
• E-commerce & Omnichannel Coordinators – Manage online orders, digital engagement, and integrated sales channels.

With new retail concepts such as experiential stores, pop-up events, and integrated online-to-offline shopping experiences, jobseekers can find opportunities that align with their skills, interests, and lifestyle needs.

Career Progression in Retail

Retail is no longer just a stepping stone. Many supervisors, managers, and even regional leaders began as frontline staff. By upskilling in areas like leadership, digital tools, and customer experience, you can move quickly up the ladder and try new roles.

In-demand skills include:

• Sales and negotiation
• Inventory and merchandising systems
• Customer service excellence
• Digital retail technologies

Employers are also increasingly offering structured training, mentorship programmes, and performance bonuses to reward and retain talent.

FastJobs: Your Gateway to Retail Careers

FastJobs makes finding the right retail job simple, fast, and effective. With smart job-matching technology, instant alerts, and a mobile-first platform, you can:

• Discover retail roles that match your skills and availability
• Apply quickly with your completed profile
• Stay updated on the latest openings from leading retail employers

Whether you’re taking your first step into retail or aiming for the next stage in your career, FastJobs is here to help you find opportunities that truly fit.

The retail sector is on the rise — and your next career move could be just around the corner.
Visit FastJobs.sg today to explore the latest retail openings and start building your future in one of Singapore’s most dynamic industries.

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