// Almost 135,000 retail jobs have been lost during the pandemic
// The jobs include sales and retail assistants, cashiers and checkout operators
New research has found that almost 135,000 retail jobs have been lost during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The GMB found that in 2021, almost 135,000 retail jobs including sales and retail assistants, cashiers and checkout operators, were lost.
Its analysis of official figures found that in 2019 there were an estimated 1.2 million retail jobs, and by 2021 that number had dropped to just under 1,075,000.
READ MORE: Almost 150,000 Asda workers forced to accept below average pay
“The great British high street is being allowed to wither and die,” GMB national officer Andy Prendergast said.
“These are vital businesses that drive our economy and help our communities thrive.
“GMB calls on councils and landlords to review commercial leases and offer lower rents – our business rates system is archaic and no longer fit for purpose.
“Empty high streets and shopping centres that look like ghost towns are no good for anyone.”
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