Brazilian retail has played a key role in creating formal jobs in the country. With a balance of 244 thousand new jobs in the first quarter of 2024 alone, Brazil continues to record records in the labor market. According to data from Caged, released by the Ministry of Labor and Employment (MTE), the number of workers with a formal contract reached 46 million, the highest ever recorded in the historical series since 2002.
Among the sectors that contributed most to this increase, retail stands out, which has been responsible for a significant part of the new jobs. Networks such as Priority 10, which has been expanding its operations in the second half of 2024, are examples of how the growth in the number of units and the increase in revenue have potentiated the generation of jobs. “The expansion of our network has brought direct employment opportunities, especially in regions where the market was more retracted”, says Rogerio Zorzetto, CEO of Priority 10.
With the sector heated, the expectation is that 2024 will end with even higher numbers of new jobs. The retail segment, driven by openings and the expansion of large networks, has contributed significantly to this trend.
New establishments, new jobs
The growth of Priority 10 in the second half of 2024 is illustrative of how the expansion of large retail chains directly impacts job creation. The increase in the number of units inaugurated by the company, coupled with revenue growth, generated new job opportunities. According to Zorzetto, “every new store opened represents dozens of new direct and indirect jobs, strengthening not only the local economy, but the sector as a whole.”
The expansion of these networks not only benefits workers who find new jobs, but also favors the final consumer. The expansion of the supply of products and services generates competitiveness, in addition to boosting economic development in different regions of the country, especially in areas that did not have large retail chains.
Prospects for the closure of 2024
Based on the figures presented until the beginning of the second half, retail is projected to continue boosting job creation until the end of 2024, as Zorzetto attests.The positive balance of 244 thousand jobs in the first quarter points to a trend of sustainable growth, especially in networks that have expanded their operations at a rapid pace.
According to Rogerio, the goal is to end the year with even more openings, consolidating retail as a force for job creation in the country. “We believe that the demand for new professionals will continue to grow as we expand our presence in new markets,” he points out.
