The retail industry in Ireland is expected to pick up considerably over the coming year, generating an estimated 1,000 new jobs.

According to a forecast from Retail Excellence, within the next 12 months the market will continue to grow and will create new employment opportunities.

A survey of its members by the industry body found that many are predicting the sector will return to a path of expansion by the end of the year, as business conditions continue to improve.

Representing almost 600 organizations, Retail Excellence held its first seminar entitled Back to Work in a bid to assist people in moving from other careers into jobs in the market, particularly those who are currently unemployed.

The most recent KBC Ireland/ESRI consumer sentiment index in Ireland rose to a two-year high during April, increasing by 3.7 percentage points over the month to 65.6, pushed up by improvements in spending and jobs.

Posted by Kate Griffin