How to get a higher salary as a store employee in 2025

Understand your value as a store employee

The retail industry is among Norway's largest employers, and the competition for the best salaries is often tough. In 2025, the average monthly salary for store employees in Norway is around 33,000 kroner, according to Statistics Norway. However, the salary level varies based on age, seniority, education, vocational certificates, and the industry or chain you work for. To know what to expect – and negotiate about – it is smart to be familiar with both collective agreements and salary statistics.

How to increase your chances of a higher salary

Familiarize yourself with collective agreements and minimum wage

If you have a collective agreement in your company, the base salary is set in the agreement. As of 2025, the collective agreement between Virke and The Commercial Workers' Union includes minimum wage rates that quickly increase with higher seniority. Check if you are covered by a collective agreement, and consider different agreements at The Commercial Workers' Union to see what applies specifically to you.

Build your skills

Vocational certificates in sales, courses in customer service, or specialized skills in cash systems, inventory management, or purchasing give you a competitive edge. Many employers offer bonuses or higher salary levels for additional expertise, especially if you take the initiative for further education. This also strengthens your application for new positions.

Show initiative and take responsibility

Employers appreciate employees who are solution-oriented, put the customer first, and contribute to a good work environment. If you have taken on more responsibility, such as training new employees or handling larger tasks, it is important to highlight this in salary discussions.

Prepare for the salary conversation

Asking for a higher salary can feel challenging, but preparation makes it easier. Here's how you can present yourself stronger:

• Gather documentation: Note specific examples of tasks, additional responsibilities, and results you have achieved.
• Familiarize yourself with salary levels: Use salary statistics from Statistics Norway and investigate what others in similar positions earn.
• Initiate a conversation: Request a salary meeting at least once a year.
• Be clear and respectful: Explain why you believe you deserve a higher salary without negatively comparing yourself to colleagues.

Extra measures to increase your salary

Look for new roles or negotiate when starting a new job

Often, you get the largest salary increase by changing jobs or negotiating when starting a new position. Therefore, be attentive when applying for new positions – use tools that show salary levels for different jobs and have salary demands ready. At Lønna.no, you get a full overview of positions with transparent salary information and can compare opportunities across industries.

Utilize union membership

A strong tool for higher salaries is being organized. The unions help members with negotiations, advice, and legal support, and they advocate for better salary conditions. You are often invited to courses and receive useful information about your rights.

Keep an eye on market developments

Salary levels in retail vary from region to region and are influenced by factors such as demand and the store's economy. Stay updated on relevant statistics from e.g. Statistics Norway and be informed before you negotiate, so you have the best possible factual basis.

Use digital tools to document skills and progress

Having an updated CV and an overview of your applications enables you to seize new opportunities quickly. At Lønna.no, you can easily create professional CVs, write good job applications, and keep track of your application processes. This makes it easier to showcase the skills you have acquired and stand firm in negotiations for better salary conditions.

Summary: The salary meeting is your opportunity

Salary is more than just numbers on a paycheck – it is recognition of the value you contribute. To succeed in salary negotiations in the retail industry, it is therefore important to be well-prepared, document your work, and utilize the resources available digitally. Lønna.no helps you with support and overview – giving you an advantage when you want to raise your salary as a store employee in 2025.

Sources

• Statistics Norway: Salary for employees in retail
• The Commercial Workers' Union: Salary and collective agreements