The retail industry involves selling merchandise or services directly to final consumers. This happens on-line, in stores, and in a variety of other formats. Managers in this industry need to understand issues of merchandise selection and marketing, pricing and presentation, customer service, and more general business functions such as financial management, inventory control, and supervision.
Retailing is the largest employer in Jefferson County and one of the largest employers nationwide.
It is an easy field to get into at the entry level, but management positions normally require at least some college or professional training. Management in retailing often requires a creative and artistic focus, as well as the ability to understand and work with diverse groups of customers and employees. The retail industry is currently undergoing a massive change as the Internet offers more on-line retailing opportunities and consumers are shifting the way in which they buy. Retail managers today must have an understanding of on-line business and marketing, as well as classic retail skills. This segment of the industry is characterized by frequent relocation and travel.