According to iCIMS’s report, overall retail job openings remain higher than a year ago, even though hiring has dropped. The report suggests that although candidates are increasingly interested in part-time retail roles, employers appear hesitant to hire at previous rates.
The report also reveals a rise in applications for retail positions—applications have surged by 70% since September 2022 and by 15% from last year, showing job seekers’ optimism about finding work in retail. However, retail job openings and hires have declined compared to two years ago, with a 25% decrease in open roles and a 23% drop in actual hires.
In addition, younger workers mainly dominate the applicant pool. Gen Z candidates make up most of the applicants in both retail and transportation, and applicants under the age of 35 are leading in both segments. In spite of a rise in older workers returning to the workforce, they represent only a tiny fraction; just 11% of applicants in September were aged 54 or older.
Customer service is still critical for shoppers in preparation for the holiday season. Nearly eight in 10 consumers consider quality service essential to their holiday shopping experience. Moreover, millennials are especially likely to prioritize this, with 44% stating that strong customer service is “very” important, compared to 32% of baby boomers who feel the same way.
Regarding shopping preferences, a mix of online and in-store shopping is expected this season. While 18% of respondents plan to shop exclusively in-store, 25% intend to shop solely online, and 57% plan to use both methods.
Additionally, the motivations for seasonal work reveal that competitive pay is a top priority, with 67% of potential workers citing it as the main factor. Employee discounts and a positive work environment are essential, motivating 50% and 53% of respondents, respectively. Despite these draws, applicants remain concerned about some aspects of retail work: 53% worry about inconsistent hours, 42% about low pay, and 46% about high stress or workload.
This combination of increased job seeker interest, younger applicant demographics, and evolving worker concerns highlights the shifting dynamics in the retail job market.