Retail is a $2.7 trillion industry that includes supermarkets, department stores, discount stores, and clothing stores. Most of the retail industry’s employees are sales people and clerks, but the industry also employs individuals who manage the transportation, operations, and finances of retail companies.

Retailers are the middle layer between wholesalers and consumers. Their primary function is to sell goods and services at a mark-up that allows them to earn a profit and attract repeat business.

Larger discount retailers and specialty retailers are driving many smaller "mom and pop" retailers out of the market. Almost all major retailers now have websites which allow consumers to purchase goods without entering a building.

Overall, the Bureau of Labor and Statistics predicts the following careers will be in high demand: distribution specialists and merchandise planners; buyers with product development and private-label experience; anyone who understands data-interpretation technology and digital systems such as Quick Response, Electronic Data Interchange, and POS terminals; and managers with either e-commerce or overseas marketing expertise.

Employment of purchasing managers, buyers, purchasing agents, and sales supervisors and managers is expected to grow more slowly. Most job openings will result from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force.

Retail requires creative thinking, flexibility, and stamina. To succeed in retail sales, workers must be amiable, enthusiastic, patient, and able to think on their feet. They also need strong communication skills, an ability to work well with others, strong product knowledge, and a genuine interest in the products they sell.

There are several courses of study that would help make someone successful in this career field. Some suggested courses are: accounting, marketing, keyboarding, CAD Fashion, and English.

Those starting out in retail typically begin on the sales floor answering customer questions and learning about the products they sell. They often spend long hours on their feet assisting customers, answering telephones, and reviewing and restocking new inventory.

Sales supervisors and managers typically have offices within the store where they complete merchandise orders and arrange work schedules, but a large part of their workday is spent on the sales floor.

Purchasing managers, buyers, and purchasing agents usually work in comfortable, well-lighted offices and frequently work more than 40 hours a week. Many purchasing professionals also travel several days a month, including foreign travel for those who work for worldwide manufacturing companies, large retailers, or the fashion industry.

Individuals who desire to work in retail should be prepared to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, and to schedule vacations during the off-season. Many retailers do not allow employees to take vacation time from late November until early January.