The constant demand for Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) provides the industry with an unrivalled level of security. The term refers to low-cost, non-durable products that are bought and used by consumers on a regular basis, such as groceries, toiletries and soft drinks.
There are opportunities in a number of areas, including sales, marketing, buying, retail management and merchandising. Owing to the quick sale of FMCG, it is possible to gain a large amount of selling experience over a short period of time, unlike other industries, which make far fewer sales per month.
The diverse nature of the fast-moving goods business also provides a much wider range of experience, with opportunities to move across to other areas, such as from operations into marketing. Employers range from local companies to large multinationals, with job openings throughout the country.
Salaries depend on the type of work undertaken and the position held within the company. Management positions offer salaries of between £32,000 and £45,000, with rates of £55,000 to £65,000 for marketing and operations managers. Process technologists earn average salaries of £45,000, while maintenance engineers receive lower rates of £35,000.