Night Shifts on the Rise in Retail Amidst E-Commerce Boom
- Number of retail staff working nights doubles
- 50% increase in retail workers on night shifts since 2007
- 70,000 people mainly work nights in UK retail sector
- 3% of retail workforce are night workers
- 27% of retail workers have changing shift patterns
- Online shopping and 24-hour supermarkets contribute to increase
- 18% of grocery shopping done online in 2017
- Night shifts more common for men than women
A recent study by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) revealed a significant increase in retail workers operating on night shifts. The number of employees working regular night shifts has doubled since 2007, with 50% more staff now adopting this schedule. In the UK retail sector, approximately 70,000 people work primarily during night hours. Night workers account for 3% of the entire retail workforce. Furthermore, 27% of retail employees experience frequent shift changes, switching between late nights and early mornings. In 2007, this figure was only 18%. The growth in 24-hour supermarkets and online shopping, where customers can shop at any time, is believed to be the primary cause for the rise in night shifts. Last year, nearly 18% of grocery purchases were made online, a significant increase from the 3% recorded in 2007. Men are more likely to work night shifts than women, with an increase of 77% since 2007.
Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate information from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) about the increase in retail staff working night shifts, the percentage of night workers in the UK’s retail workforce, and the rise of online shopping as a factor contributing to this change. It also includes a relevant expert opinion on the potential dangers of night work.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about an increase in retail workers working night shifts and the factors contributing to this change. It also includes a warning from an expert on the potential dangers of night work. However, it could benefit from more analysis or context on the implications of these changes for both employees and businesses.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: UK retail sector
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses the increase in night shift workers in the UK retail sector, which can impact companies’ labor costs and operational efficiency, potentially affecting their financial performance. It also mentions the rise of online retail which may influence the overall market dynamics.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: Other
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: There is no extreme event mentioned in the article.
www.retailsector.co.uk 
