Macy's announced on Thursday (September 19) that it will hire over 31,500 full-time and part-time employees for the upcoming holiday season, a decrease from last year's total of 38,000.
The US department store is gearing up for what is expected to be a busy shopping period, but softer consumer spending and a slower labor market have led to a smaller hiring target compared to previous years.
Macy's Seasonal Hiring
Retailers across the United States are expected to hire fewer seasonal workers this year, according to a report from Challenger, Grey & Christmas.
This decline is due to weaker labor market conditions and tighter consumer spending as inflation continues to affect shopping habits.
A forecast by Deloitte showed that US holiday sales are predicted to grow at the slowest pace in six years. With higher living costs and reduced savings, consumers are expected to be more cautious with their purchases during this critical shopping season.
Macy's, along with other major companies, is preparing for the surge in demand by hiring additional workers to ensure stores and online platforms can handle the increased volume of customers and orders.
Nationwide hiring events will take place at Macy's, Bloomingdale's, and Bluemercury stores, as well as distribution centers, starting on September 26.
Although Macy's is hiring fewer seasonal workers this year, it remains one of the largest retailers in the country. The company has streamlined its hiring process, offering an easy online application that takes only five minutes to complete.
Job offers are typically made within 48 hours. Additionally, Macy's will hold four in-person hiring events across all locations in September, October, November, and December.
UPS, another major player preparing for the holiday season, announced it will hire 125,000 workers, surpassing last year's figure of 100,000. The parcel delivery company is expecting a significant increase in shipping activity as more consumers shop online., according to Reuters.
Macy's decision to hire fewer employees this year aligns with the overall trend of cautious hiring among US retailers. However, the company is still committed to providing a strong customer experience during the holidays.
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Where to Apply?
Its Bold New Chapter strategy, which emphasizes customer satisfaction and employee engagement, will be supported by the additional staff during this time. Danielle Kirgan, Macy's Chief Human Resources Officer, said that the new seasonal positions will enhance the company's ability to welcome and serve customers through the busy holiday period.
Those interested in working at Macy's, Bloomingdale's, or Bluemercury can apply online or in person during the scheduled hiring events. Macy's also offers positions at its distribution centers in various states, including Connecticut, Arizona, West Virginia, Ohio, Tennessee, and Oklahoma.
These jobs will help support the company's supply chain as it works to meet the increased demand for shipping during the holidays.
Macy's provides competitive pay and benefits to seasonal employees. Workers can enjoy perks like an employee discount, early access to earned wages, and access to financial education resources., according to Business Wire.
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