Retail’s Roller Coaster Ride: Navigating Holiday Hiring in 2025

Boom or Bust: The Hiring Crunch

It’s a rough year to be in retail, folks. Retail job cuts have skyrocketed by 274% in the first months of the year compared to 2024, according to Challenger, Gray & Christmas. Even as summer rolled on, this trend of trimming roles didn’t let up.

The Financial Fizzle

What’s the deal? Retail’s downturn is making consumers tighten their purse strings. Lower-income families are finding it hard to afford basic needs. Some experts, like PwC, think holiday sales might dip this year, thanks to cautious consumers.

Seasonal Hiring Blues

Remember last year? Retailers were already adding 4% fewer jobs then. This year could hit rock-bottom levels reminiscent of the 2009 recession. Challenger, Gray & Christmas expect less than 500,000 seasonal hires, compared to over 543,000 last year.

Retailers in Focus

Target Takes a Different Track

Target is keeping their seasonal hiring plans under wraps this year. Unlike last year, when they aimed for 100,000 new faces, this year’s focus is on their current team. Target allows existing staff to catch some more hours or join the flexible on-demand crew. Learn more about Target’s seasonal roles.

Kohl’s Kicks Off Early

Kohl’s didn’t specify numbers but is keen to bring folks on board. Local news in Milwaukee reports over 300 roles open citywide. Details on Kohl’s opportunities are out, with speed in hiring and perks like weekly pay and a 15% discount part of the package.

Dollar Tree’s Broader Plans

Dollar Tree recently hosted a National Hiring Week. While specifics weren’t given, they plan to add “thousands” across 9,000+ stores. Competitive pay, stock purchase plans, and promotional paths are all part of the offering. More on Dollar Tree’s hiring plans.

Spirit Halloween’s Spooky Surge

In June, Spirit Halloween revealed plans to recruit 50,000 new hands for 1,500+ outlets. Perks include a killer 30% discount, flexible scheduling, and retention bonuses for the return crew. Spirit Halloween’s hiring announcement paints a lively picture.

Michaels: Crafting Opportunities

Michaels began their hiring spree in September, targeting 10,000 new employees. Half their past seasonal hires ended up in permanent roles. Employees enjoy discounts and competitive wages. Explore Michaels’ holiday hiring endeavors.

Bath & Body Works: Consistency is Key

Bath & Body Works, planning to hire over 30,000 across North America, matches last year’s numbers. Alongside retail roles, distribution center jobs are abundant. Discounts and flexible schedules are on offer. Details on Bath & Body Works’ seasonal hires.

Retailers are feeling the pressure, folks. With automation and permanent staff stepping up, the seasonal hiring show is looking thin. Will we see a dramatic holiday sales boost? Only time will tell.