Next boss warns over ‘dramatic fall’ in UK entry-level jobs
The CEO of Next has raised concerns about a significant decline in entry-level job opportunities in the UK, noting that the number of applicants per position has doubled in two years. Lord Wolfson highlighted that this trend reflects a broader crisis in youth unemployment, with nearly a million young people currently not in education, employment, or training. He also criticized government measures as disjointed and called for a cohesive strategy to address these issues.
- ▪Next's CEO, Lord Wolfson, reported that the number of applicants for entry-level jobs has increased from 10 to 19 per position in two years.
- ▪A government report is expected to reveal that Labour has not effectively addressed youth unemployment.
- ▪Wolfson suggested that economic growth is essential to improving the job market for young people.
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Next typically received 10 applicants for every job in its shops two years ago, but that number has now risen to 19, said Lord Wolfson. Photograph: Christopher Thomond/The GuardianView image in fullscreenNext typically received 10 applicants for every job in its shops two years ago, but that number has now risen to 19, said Lord Wolfson. Photograph: Christopher Thomond/The GuardianEconomicsNext boss warns over ‘dramatic fall’ in UK entry-level jobsPeer’s comments come as Milburn report is likely to find government has failed to tackle youth unemployment Business live – latest updates Julia KolleweTue 26 May 2026 04.23 EDTLast modified on Tue 26 May 2026 04.24 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThe boss of Next has sounded the alarm about a “dramatic fall” in the number of entry-level…
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