Retail store and shop manager pay in London May 2026

Retail managers have the job of running a shop on a day-to-day basis.

They can work on the shop floor and in a shop office.

Other names for retail managers are:

• Shop manager
• Store manager
• Branch manager
• General manager

Some shops have assistant manager roles too. This can also be called a deputy general manager.

This type of job may involve similar tasks that retail supervisors do, along with:

• Motivating the team to reach targets and setting customer service standards
• Managing stock levels
• Recruiting, interviewing and training new workers
• Taking part in performance reviews
• Managing budgets
• Writing reports
• Keeping on top of legal and health and safety requirements
• Analysing and forecasting sales
• Dealing with customer complaints and feedback
• Organising promotions, displays and in-store events

You may be on your feet a lot. But any office-based tasks can be done sitting down.

You may have to work on weekends and bank holidays.

If you want to apply for a retail manager job, you might need the following:

• Previous retail experience
• Previous managerial experience may be expected
• Basic computer skills
• The right to work in the UK

Qualifications aren’t necessary but can help. These can include a relevant degree, a college diploma, an apprenticeship or a graduate training scheme.

Retail assistants and supervisors can also be promoted to retail managers.