The report highlights a clear shift in hiring priorities, with retailers increasingly focusing on analytics-led and technology-driven roles over physical store expansion

Bengaluru: India’s retail sector continues to show strong hiring momentum, with the Net Employment Outlook (NEO) rising to +8.1% in the second half of 2025 (HY2), up from +5.2% in the first half (HY1), indicating growing confidence among retailers amid festive demand, omni-channel expansion and quick-commerce growth, as per the latest TeamLease Employment Outlook Report.

According to the report, the improved sentiment is being driven by a combination of seasonal demand, GST-related relief measures, increased adoption of omni-channel retail models and the rapid scale-up of quick-commerce platforms. While hiring intentions remain positive, around 7% of employers expect selective workforce reductions, largely in underperforming store formats, redundant checkout roles and administration-heavy functions.

The report highlights a clear shift in hiring priorities, with retailers increasingly focusing on analytics-led and technology-driven roles over physical store expansion. Demand is strongest for category managers, pricing analysts, loyalty specialists, last-mile planners, and digital roles spanning ad operations and shopper analytics, reflecting the sector’s push towards data-driven customer engagement and operational efficiency.

In terms of functions, sales and marketing roles dominate hiring plans, with 81% of employers indicating intent to recruit in this area. This is followed by blue-collar roles at 39% and back-office and administrative positions at 35%, underscoring the sector’s continued need for frontline and operational talent alongside digital capabilities.

Geographically, major metropolitan markets continue to attract the bulk of retail hiring. Mumbai leads with 31% of employers planning recruitment, followed by Bengaluru at 28% and Delhi at 25%, reinforcing their position as key retail and consumption hubs.

Commenting on the findings, Balasubramanian A, Senior Vice President, TeamLease Services, said the rise in the Net Employment Outlook reflects the sector’s resilience and confidence. “The jump from +5.2% in HY1 to +8.1% in HY2 highlights the retail sector’s robust outlook. As technology-led roles gain prominence, businesses are clearly prioritising efficiency and deeper customer engagement, setting the stage for steady job creation and sustained growth,” he said.

The insights are based on a survey of 1,251 employers across 23 industries and 20 cities, conducted between June and August 2025.