The National Retail Federation estimates that between 500,000 and 600,000 seasonal workers will be required in 2021, approximately 20 percent more than in 2020 given COVID restrictions during the fourth quarter of the previous year.  In investor calls, both Walmart and Target have indicated that they have not experienced difficulty in filling positions. 

Walmart has successively increased wage rates in three tranches and has introduced other benefits including medical and educational concessions. The Company will hire for additional positions in distribution centers and for the internal supply chain.

Target has announced that it will hire 100,000 seasonal employees, approximately 30 percent less than in previous years.  The Target strategy will be to increase hours for existing employees who are both trained and motivated.  The company has budgeted five million additional hours for existing staff, requiring an incremental expenditure of $75 million.  Increases in wage and salary rates, and other benefits have resulted in a high rate of employee retention that benefits the company and indirectly contributes to customer satisfaction.