Brazilian retail has played a key role in creating formal jobs in the country. With a balance of 244,000 new jobs in the first quarter of 2024 alone, Brazil continues to set 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 employment 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, as it has been responsible for a significant portion of new jobs. Networks like Prioridade 10, which are expanding their operations in the second half of 2024, are examples of how growth in the number of units and increased revenue have boosted job creation. "The expansion of our network has brought direct employment opportunities, especially in regions where the market was more stagnant," says Rogério Zorzetto, CEO of Prioridade 10.
With the sector booming, 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 chains, has contributed significantly to this trend.
New establishments, new jobs
The growth of Priority 10 in the second half of 2024 illustrates how the expansion of large retail chains directly impacts job creation. The increase in the number of units inaugurated by the company, combined with revenue growth, generated new job opportunities. According to Zorzetto, "each 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 end consumer. The expansion of product and service offerings generates competitiveness, as well as drives economic development in different regions of the country, especially in areas that did not have large retail networks.
Outlook for the end of 2024
Based on the numbers presented until the beginning of the second semester, the projection is that retail will continue to drive job creation until the end of 2024, as Zorzetto affirms. The positive balance of 244 thousand jobs in the first quarter indicates a trend of sustainable growth, especially in networks that have been expanding their operations at a rapid pace.
According to Rogério, the goal is to end the year with even more inaugurations, 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 emphasizes.
