Retail and wholesale manager Salary UK
Managers and directors in retail and wholesale in the UK earn a median salary of £36,006 a year (ONS ASHE 2025, gross pay, all employee jobs), and the middle half earn between £27,540 and £49,897. The figures cover the ONS occupation group “Managers and directors in retail and wholesale” (SOC 1150).
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £36,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For managers and directors in retail and wholesale, £38,447 is the typical (median) pay. That is around the UK full-time median of £39,039 — -2.0% versus the national average. Experienced managers and directors in retail and wholesale (top 25%) earn over £49,897.
About this role
Managers and directors in retail and wholesale oversee retail or wholesale operations, managing stores, distribution networks and commercial strategy. They are responsible for sales performance, stock management, customer experience and team leadership across their operations.
Key responsibilities
- Managing day-to-day retail or wholesale operations
- Driving sales performance and achieving revenue targets
- Overseeing stock management, merchandising and supply chain
- Recruiting, training and managing staff
- Ensuring compliance with consumer protection and health and safety regulations
Qualifications and entry routes
Significant retail management experience is essential. A degree in business, retail management or a related field is common but not always required. Professional qualifications from the BRC or similar bodies are valued.
Career outlook
Sector faces structural challenges from online retail, but demand remains for experienced managers who can navigate omnichannel strategies.
Key skills
Common industries
- High street retail
- E-commerce
- Wholesale distribution
- FMCG
- Supermarkets
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£19,930
0-2 years
Mid Level
£27,540
3-7 years
Senior
£49,897
8-15 years
Leadership
£73,084
15+ years
Potential career growth: ▲ +267% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 21.3%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£2,441
Retail and wholesale manager salary: common questions
How much do managers and directors in retail and wholesale earn in the UK?
Is £38,447 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for managers and directors in retail and wholesale?
How much do the highest-paid managers and directors in retail and wholesale earn?
Have managers and directors in retail and wholesale salaries kept up with inflation?
Is there a gender pay gap for managers and directors in retail and wholesale?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025). How the figures are built: salary data methodology.