Staffing shortages and draft deferment gaps: Key challenges facing Ukraine’s retail sector 

Staffing cuts and issues with an exemption from military service remain significant challenges for Ukraine’s retail sector, as highlighted by Andrii Zhuk, co-founder and chairman of the Retail Association of Ukraine, during a briefing at the Media Center Ukraine.

“Staffing is a pressing concern right now,” Zhuk noted. “The situation is worsening daily, and we are facing a serious shortage across all levels—from sales associates and cashiers to middle and top management. Compounding this is a pause in deferments for employees in critical business. Our current audit has halted obtaining new draft deferments until November 15, which is a significant setback. We’re urging for an immediate continuation of these exemptions from conscription for those qualifying for, as it’s essential to identify which companies fall under critical operations. Without this, there’s a risk that no one will be available to operate or open stores,” he explained.

Read more: https://mediacenter.org.ua/news