HSIE Subject Selection

The retail services industries are distinct, with clear differences in the role each plays within the supply chain. The industries are highly diverse in terms of the products and services offered and the size and distribution of enterprises, ranging from sole traders through to multinational companies. Key sectors of the retail services industries include retail and community pharmacy.

Around 10 per cent of the total workforce is in the retail industry. Retail job roles include sales assistant, retail supervisor, retail manager and visual merchandiser. Retail trade is the largest employing industry of workers aged 15–24 years, offering many their first job and equipping them with skills for the rest of their career. Retail is a people business and success relies on quality goods, services and staff.

The modern shopper expects an ‘experience’, personalised service, value and convenience. Staff need to be experts in the products and services they are selling and to engage and build relationships with the customer. Successful retailers need to invest in training of their frontline sales staff and promote opportunities and career pathways.

In Australia, community pharmacy not only involves selling prescription and non-prescription medicines but also plays a role in the healthcare system through the provision of related support services, such as medication management and preventative health education, information and advice. Community pharmacies are highly regulated which not only shapes the industry structure, but also governs its operations and affects the role of the pharmacy assistant.