In 2023, the number of employees in the Canadian retail sector, excluding motor vehicles and motorcycles, stood at 1.71 million. The forecast for 2024 maintains this at 1.71 million, which is projected to remain stable through 2025. A slight decline to 1.7 million is expected in 2026, with stability at this level continuing through to 2028. Year-on-year variations show minimal changes, with a consistent CAGR over the five-year forecast period suggesting a near-flat trend.

Future trends to watch for include:

The impact of technological advancements and automation on employment needs.
Shifts in consumer behavior, particularly post-pandemic shopping patterns.
Economic factors and policy changes affecting retail hiring and workforce dynamics.