Every day, three million people power retail - from shop floors to delivery vans and stockrooms, keeping Britain moving, serving 30 million of us every single day.
However, The Retail Trust has used Respect For Shopworkers Week to highlight how things have changed in recent years, following the news over 70% of workers have been verbally abused, and 23% physically assaulted while at their jobs.
It says that behind those numbers are real people - colleagues, parents, neighbours - who’ve been shouted at, spat at, pushed and filmed without consent to be mocked online. And it isn’t about customer service; it’s about human decency.
That’s why the Trust is asking you to send them your smile. It could be a selfie or a group shot – and it will use the photos to show retail the smile it deserves through the busiest season of the year.
On Black Friday (28 November), screens across the UK, from Piccadilly Circus to shopping centres nationwide, will light up with thousands of smiles of respect.
Respect is contagious, it says, but it starts small. “Every act of respect matters. Whether you’re in a supermarket queue, behind a counter, or shopping online, you can help change the story. Remember, there’s a person behind the uniform. Make eye contact. Say thank you. Smile - these small acts restore dignity.”
“If you see someone being treated unfairly, show kindness or step in safely.”
You can add your smile of respect and join the movement by uploading your smile of respect here, along with a message of support for retail workers who might be needing a boost at this busy time of year.
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