Tidings Are Gloomy for Holiday-Job Seekers

[marmar]

(WSJ) The outlook is dimmer than it has been in several years for workers hoping to get a part-time retailing job for the holiday shopping season, according to a survey of 21 store chains.

About two-thirds of the chains polled by consulting firm Hay Group said they would add the same number of workers for their busiest sales period as they did last year, even though many said they expect better holiday sales this year. About 25% said they planned to hire fewer seasonal employees than last year.

The participants ranged from Macy's Inc. to crafts chain Michaels Stores Inc. and home-furnishings retailer Pier 1 Imports Inc. to Coldwater Creek Inc., which sells women's apparel.

The consultants who conducted the survey said they were surprised by the results. "We keep hearing that retailers want to create a more engaging environment for customers," said Maryam Morse, retail practice leader with the Hay Group. "That seems inconsistent with hiring fewer seasonal workers." ..............(more)

The complete piece is at: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424053111903648204576552933104908702.html

[durablend]

1. Can't make those big profit$ if you're paying employees! n/t

[xchrom]

2. Recommend

[Selatius]

3. With the way the economy is going, I fear this holiday season could be another disastrous one. nt