More young people start their careers in retail than in any other sector in the UK, with nearly one in four beginning their careers in the industry, according to new research from Marks & Spencer and the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR).

This entry-level job creation for young people contributes £7.4 billion in gross value added (GVA) – equivalent to 7% of the retail sector’s total economic impact in 2024.

The retailer believes that Employer NICs relief for businesses that employ the long-term unemployed or young people struggling to find work will unlock significant opportunities, with The Jobs Foundation suggesting the move could create over 100,000 jobs.

M&S also wants the government to deliver on its promise of Apprenticeship Levy reform so that more of the funds paid by businesses can be used to offer opportunities.

M&S’ employability programme – Marks & Start – has provided a route into retail to more than 30,000 people experiencing barriers to employment. The scheme, run in partnership with The King’s Trust, helps participants with skills, such as CV building and interview preparation through to money management.

“Retail is a powerful engine of social mobility. At a time when so many young people are struggling to get their foot on the career ladder, this industry can give them that first crucial opportunity – particularly those facing the biggest barriers. But we can’t do it alone – businesses need more support from the government to unlock more opportunities for young people.”

Stuart Machin, CEO, Marks & Spencer

Jonathan Townsend, CEO at The King’s Trust, said: “Young people continue to face significant challenges to their employment prospects, but there are so many young people who are ready to work and just need an additional support to make that happen.”

M&S also announced it has launched a six-part podcast series with the UK’s leading careers show, My Duvet Flip, where listeners can hear personal stories and experiences of young people working in retail.