Retail’s seasonal hiring could hit lowest point since 2009

Group 1 - Retailers are cautious about hiring goals for the holiday season, with many remaining silent on their plans [3][4] - Factors affecting seasonal hiring include looming tariffs, inflationary pressures, and a shift towards automation and permanent staff [4] - Target is focusing on utilizing existing employees by offering more hours rather than hiring new seasonal staff [5] Group 2 - Retail hiring during the holiday season is projected to fall below 500,000 positions, marking the lowest point since 2009 [7] - Challenger, Gray & Christmas reports a 4% year-over-year decrease in seasonal hiring in 2024, with 543,100 jobs added in Q4 [7] - The retail industry has consistently hired above 500,000 seasonal employees since 2009, following the economic recovery [5]