How luxury brands in the can attract and retain top talent

Talent expectations from luxury brands

New Generations Are Changing the Rules

Millennials and Gen Z are redefining the workplace, and their influence is felt across the UK luxury market. Now comprising over 50% of the workforce, these generations prioritise flexibility, sustainability, and alignment with personal values.

In luxury, this means striking a balance between longstanding tradition and contemporary expectations. Younger professionals are drawn to iconic brands but also demand work environments that reflect their modern aspirations. Research from Deloitte shows that 73% of millennials believe a company must align with their values to ensure long-term engagement.

Continuous learning and access to the latest technologies are also essential for this group. Outdated tools or rigid processes can quickly become barriers for ambitious professionals seeking fulfilling careers.

Employer Branding: Exclusive Appeal in the UK

In a market where exclusivity defines success, employer branding takes on heightened importance. Luxury brands must deliver excellence not just to customers but to potential employees as well.

This involves showcasing the company’s reputation, career growth opportunities, and commitment to innovation. Luxury professionals are drawn to workplaces that mirror the same high standards they bring to their craft.

For brands, this means creating a narrative that highlights their heritage, craftsmanship, and forward-thinking vision. Candidates are particularly interested in how brands are blending artisanal traditions with modern technology to maintain relevance in a competitive global market.

Roles in luxury: Bridging craft and technology

Luxury roles require a rare combination of technical skill and creative artistry, which creates unique expectations for talent. Professionals in the UK want opportunities to refine their craft while leveraging innovative tools that simplify their work.

Retail teams must navigate a dynamic space where traditional in-store service meets omnichannel solutions. UK luxury professionals value brands that invest in modern technology, allowing them to focus on their expertise rather than mundane tasks.

Strategies to attract top talent

Strengthen employer branding through storytelling

Storytelling is a powerful tool for attracting talent in the UK luxury sector. Brands must authentically share their heritage, values, and future vision to connect emotionally with potential recruits.

Platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube provide ideal spaces for this approach. Luxury brands can showcase employee stories, behind-the-scenes processes, and innovative projects, creating a humanized, aspirational image.

Collaborations with leading UK institutions, such as fashion and design schools, also offer a unique opportunity to attract emerging talent. These partnerships build a pipeline of candidates who align with the brand’s values and aspirations.

Offer Unique and Competitive Benefits

Beyond attractive salaries, UK luxury professionals seek benefits that reflect the prestige of the industry. Training programmes are especially valuable in a fast-evolving sector like luxury.

Exclusive experiences, such as visits to artisan workshops or VIP events, are highly appealing. These opportunities immerse employees in the brand’s heritage, while enhancing their expertise.

Global mobility is another key advantage, particularly for UK luxury professionals who value international career opportunities in a globalized market.

Embrace technology for a modern work environment

Technology is a critical factor in attracting the next generation of luxury professionals. Solutions like Cegid Retail transform the workplace by streamlining omnichannel sales, stock management, and operational tasks.

By automating repetitive processes, these tools free retail teams to focus on customer engagement and product expertise. This creates a more rewarding, efficient environment that appeals to forward-thinking professionals.

Omnichannel solutions also elevate the role of sales associates, turning them into trusted advisors who deliver seamless customer experiences across physical and digital channels.

Retaining talent through engagement and innovation

Involve employees in innovation projects

Retaining top talent means empowering them to shape the company’s future. Luxury brands can engage their teams by involving them in digital transformation projects, such as adopting new customer experience tools or sustainability initiatives.

Employees who contribute to these efforts feel valued and connected to the brand’s mission. CSR programmes resonate with today’s workforce, strengthening their sense of purpose and commitment.

Invest in skill development

Continuous training is essential for keeping talent engaged in the fast-paced luxury industry. UK brands should offer tailored development programmes to help employees adapt to new challenges and technologies.

Equipping teams with the skills to master tools like Cegid Retail boosts both their productivity and satisfaction. Mentorship, career progression, and mobility opportunities further demonstrate a brand’s investment in its people.

Foster a supportive, creative culture

Autonomy and recognition are key motivators for luxury brands. Employees need space to showcase their expertise and pursue innovative ideas, along with regular acknowledgment of their achievements.

Work-life balance is also becoming increasingly important. Brands that offer flexible working options while upholding luxury standards have a competitive edge in attracting and retaining top talent.

Addressing challenges in UK luxury roles

Certain roles in UK luxury, such as those in stock management or backend operations, face particular challenges in appealing to younger professionals. Retail roles also experience high pressure and extended hours, which can deter potential candidates.

By embracing technology like Cegid Retail, brands can streamline processes, improve working conditions, and make these roles more attractive. Additionally, training teams in unified commerce and omnichannel tools helps future-proof their skills and enhances career satisfaction.