(Mirror Daily, United States) – On Wednesday, Kohl’s unveiled that it is looking to hire seasonal workers for the holiday season while a major labor shortage is affecting the retail sector.
Retailers that fail to offer enticing wages and benefits will likely suffer the most.
Kohl’s has gone on the hunt for new workers at over 300 stores in the United States. The department store has around 1,100 locations in the country.xc 5
We are hiring seasonal associates earlier than ever to ensure our teams are fully staffed, trained and ready to support peak shopping seasons,
a spokesperson for the company’s human resources department said.
Kohl’s move is well-timed as the retail industry has a major labor issue. Jobless rates in the U.S. sank to a 17-year low, and workers are more likely to leave a retailer if work conditions are not right.
Recruiters confirmed that they have problems in finding new workers, but the most problematic are entry-level and seasonal workers. Employees are reportedly pickier as they want flexible hours, more training, and higher wages. More and more Americans are less likely to apply for an entry-level retail position.
Workers Less Interested in Retail Positions
In the retail sector, the average hourly wage of an entry-level employee stood at $11.21 last year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retail companies that offer less appealing perks will have the hardest time with finding candidates.
Fast-food chains are currently facing the worst labor shortage. Dunkin’ Donuts confirmed that finding and retaining employee is one of the biggest challenges affecting the industry. Dunkin’ Donuts franchisees have reportedly complained about being able to operate with only 60% of the workforce they need.
Kohl’s is trying to lure in seasonal workers with 15% discounts for all store ware and promises that they could be hired on a full-time position.
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