More Retail Hires Suggest Merrier Christmas Sales

PHILADELPHIA - Retailers are planning to hire more employees this holiday season, according to a new survey by the Hay Group. This year, 75 percent of retailers are expecting an increase in holiday sales, according to the global management consultancy. As a result, the retailers surveyed also reported more confidence in holiday hiring plans with 36 percent planning to hire more employees, a shift from 2011 when just 10 percent planned to hire more seasonal workers than the year prior; 57 percent of retailers plan to hire seasonal workers at the same level as 2011.

"Retailers are betting big on the 2012 holiday season," said Craig Rowley, vice president and global practice leader, Hay Group, in a statement. "After four years of economic turbulence, they have figured out how to operate in an uncertain business environment, and are calm and cool, rather than concerned, as they head into the holidays."

On average, retailers say that 74 percent of their seasonal hires will be in stores and 12 percent will be in distribution centers. Nearly half (43 percent) of the retailers surveyed also said that they are focusing on hiring more permanent employees than seasonal workers.

"All things considered, retailers are on the ‘nice list' this year," said Maryam Morse, national reward practice leader, Hay Group. "One of the lessons learned during the downturn was that stores need to be able to respond more quickly to shifting market conditions and consumer preferences. Now, inventory is better managed, the supply chain is more effective and retailers have a clear plan for promotions to move the merchandise. With sales improving, retailers are placing more emphasis on retaining and rewarding employees and identifying career paths for top talent."

【Source:GDA Staff -- Gifts and Dec】