The number of teenagers employed in part-time roles has fallen significantly in recent years, with industry leaders warning that traditional first jobs for young people are under threat.
Official figures indicate that the number of under-18s on payrolls has decreased by almost 75,000, representing a 15 per cent decline over the past two years.
Employers across the hospitality and retail sectors have cited rising operational costs as a primary barrier to taking on additional part-time staff.
The proliferation of automated systems, including self-service checkouts, has also reduced the availability of entry-level positions in many retail environments.
Stuart Machin, chef executive at Marks & Spencer, has emphasised the transformative potential of Saturday employment for young people.
His own first job involved pushing trolleys at a local hypermarket, an experience he has described as fundamental to developing his confidence during adolescence.
Machin noted that this initial role represented the first step on the employment ladder and paved the way for a successful career in retail.
However, Machin has cautioned that tightening regulatory requirements and increased administrative burdens risk further discouraging businesses from recruiting weekend staff.
These compliance challenges add to the financial pressures already facing employers in the sector.
The British Retail Consortium, representing retailers and industry groups, has been advocating for policy reforms and targeted financial support to assist businesses in maintaining traditional Saturday positions for young people.
The organisation argues that such roles provide invaluable early exposure to workplace expectations, including punctuality, professional presentation, and collaboration with colleagues across different age groups.
Research suggests that engagement in part-time work during teenage years can also reduce time spent on electronic devices while helping young people develop practical skills applicable to future employment.
Industry representatives maintain that preserving access to these entry-level opportunities requires coordinated action from policymakers and businesses alike.