The National Retail Federation (NRF) recently released a statement that says that retail industry employment increased by 37,000 jobs in November. Gains were posted in most retail categories, including 11,300 in clothing and clothing accessories retailers but do not include automobile dealerships, gas stations or restaurants.
“Today’s robust jobs report shows a broadening improvement in the labor market and confirms expectations of a strengthening and expanding economy,” said NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz.
“We remain optimistic that we are gaining ground and traction toward a more normal and stable labor market in the near future.”
“The report is consistent with our holiday sales and employment forecast, which concluded that retailers will hire between 730,000 and 790,000 seasonal workers this season,” said Kleinhenz. “Many of those seasonal positions will ultimately turn into full-time jobs next year.”
The NRF 2014 Holiday lForecast calls for a 4.1 percent retail sales increase between November 1 and December 31 for a total of $616.9 billion.
