PEOPLE & JOBS: THE PERENNIAL PROBLEM: LABOUR TURNOVER IN DISTRIBUTION

Distribution has for years been handicapped by problems of high labour turnover and mobility. In this article, the second in a series arising from the study of manpower structure carried out by the Institute of Manpower Studies for the DITB, the flow of people both out of and into companies in the industry is considered. Sepcifically, information is presented on labour wastage, and sources and levels of recruitment for various occupations in the industry. The background to this study, which was completed in 1973, was originally outlined in this magazine (May 1973), and in our last issue (Sept/Oct), the main features of employment in the industry were examined. Prior to the main results the author looks at the statistics available nationally which in themselves highlight the need for improved information on manpower flows in distribution. A further article in the series will follow shortly.