Shop Level will increase when you buy, sell, or fuse equipment at shops. This is proof that you've fist-bumped the invisible hand of capitalism enough to achieve maximum Shop Level. Secret menus unleashed!
This is proof that you've found at least 40 normin and convinced them to help out. You're great at making new friends! But remember, there's more to come.
This is proof that you've battled a wide swath of enemies. By the way, the more of the same enemy you defeat, the more likely that enemy becomes to drop equipment with skills attached. Time for some population control!