‘An enormous concern’ says retail bosses as study reveals over a fifth of Irish workers experience abusive behaviour [Video]

A RECENT study has revealed that over a fifth of retail workers experience abusive behaviour on a weekly basis – and bosses say it’s an “enormous concern”.

New research on employees from Circle K, Maxol and Mr Price highlight the challenges facing retail workers.

The research is part of Kindness Week, an initiative aimed at raising awareness about abusive behaviour and celebrating customers who treat staff with kindness.

This year, Kindness Week has expanded into a week-long campaign – with support from Maxol, Mr Price and Retail Ireland.

The study found that 68 per cent of retail workers have encountered abusive behaviour during their careers.

And statistics show that female retail workers are disproportionately affected with 75 per cent reporting mistreatment compared to 60 per cent of male employees.

Some 35 per cent of workers who faced abusive behaviour described it …