Retail workers in the UK are gearing up for a challenging Christmas season, with some expected to work up to 300 hours in overtime, according to a study by music licensing company PPL PRS. This staggering figure equates to an additional 12.5 days of work between late November and early January, reflecting the high demand during the festive shopping period.
The survey, which included over 400 job listings and responses from retail staff, revealed that 83% of workers anticipate working overtime this Christmas. One in six (17%) expect to work 10 or more extra hours per week. For temporary staff, contracts often stipulate just 14 hours weekly, but with overtime, these hours can quickly climb, highlighting the physical and mental strain on employees during this peak period.
The impact of long hours
Retail workers face significant challenges during the Christmas rush, including physical fatigue, sore legs, and mental exhaustion. A previous survey by PPL PRS of 150 retail workers found that 73% experienced physical fatigue, 66% reported sore legs or feet, and 40% cited mental fatigue.
The financial strain of the season compounds these challenges, with many employees working long hours to cover holiday expenses. Despite the hardships, music has emerged as a powerful tool to alleviate stress and enhance well-being for workers during this busy time.
The role of music in the workplace
Experts agree that music can transform the working environment, providing a sense of rhythm and familiarity that helps workers cope with long shifts. Marianne Rizkallah, music therapist for PPL PRS, explains, “Music with a steady, predictable beat helps workers perform tasks in sync with what they’re hearing. It can also evoke a joyful atmosphere, making it worth adding festive hits to store playlists.”
But she warns against overplaying holiday music. “Repeating the same tracks can cause employees to focus on the monotony of their work. Balancing Christmas tunes with popular songs can create a positive, energised environment that benefits both staff and shoppers.”
Retailers like Oliver Bonas have refined their music playlists over the years to balance festive and everyday songs. Culture and service lead Donna Gutteridge notes: “Our ratio is one festive song every fourth or fifth track. This balance keeps employees engaged and provides a joyful shopping experience for customers. Many team members look forward to the seasonal playlist – it signals the start of Christmas and boosts morale.”
Tim Hull, sales director at Imagesound, which curates playlists for retail giants like H&M, emphasises the importance of variety. “We never repeat tracks on the same day. This ensures the music remains fresh for workers and enhances their experience on the shop floor.”
Supporting retail teams
Leadership coach Debbie Green highlights the importance of management support during the Christmas period. “Retail teams are the frontline of your brand, and the pressures of the season can lead to stress and burnout. Managers must set realistic expectations, onboard employees effectively, and acknowledge their efforts regularly.”
Green suggests incorporating festive activities like quizzes and parties to foster camaraderie and provide a mental break. “These activities can encourage collaboration and reduce stress, creating a sense of belonging and appreciation among team members.”
A challenging yet vital role
As the Christmas shopping season continues to grow in intensity, the role of retail workers becomes increasingly critical. Balancing the demands of the job with personal well-being is no small feat, but tools like music and supportive management practices can make a meaningful difference.
While shoppers enjoy the festive atmosphere, it’s important to recognise the dedication of the workers who make it all possible.
