Shopkeepers manage their own independent stores or run shops that are part of a retail chain.


Working Hours

42–48

hours per week

Career Area

Shopkeepers and owners - retail and wholesale

View related courses

Day-to-day tasks

As a shopkeeper, you'll:

  • keep shop displays and pricing up to date
  •  take card and cash payments, and deal with returns
  •  answer customer questions and give advice about products
  •  manage stock control and place orders with wholesalers
  •  process online sales and market your products
  •  recruit, train and supervise shop assistants
  •  calculate takings, process wages and manage accounts

Skills needed

  • customer service skills
  • the ability to sell products and services
  • leadership skills
  • to enjoy working with other people
  • maths knowledge
  • the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • business management skills 
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

How to get into this role

You can get into this job through:

  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • setting up your own business

Career progression

With experience, you may be able to run your own shop, take on a franchise or manage a store for a retail chain.