Retailers are expecting heavy Christmas
sales this season despite the nation's
roller coaster economy.
Department stores are already hiring part
time employees to handle the seasonal
rush. Store managers say they don't
expect sales to drop off this year.
In fact, they're expecting a booming
business and soft sales clothing.
That's because cold weather hasn't hit
yet and warm clothes will probably be
at the top of some Christmas lists.
One store we stopped at is adding 100
part timers to its staff.
That's slightly above last year's figure.
And personnel manager Jim Maty says the
people who are applying apparently have
plans for their paychecks.
A lot of people are saying due to the
inflation, that they just need some more
money. They need to earn a little bit
extra so they can have a good Christmas.
Penny Clark, who is a mother of two, has
just hired on with Sears for the season
begin. Can boost will go toward
Christmas. It will help for a little
extra things for the family and
explaining why economically pinched
consumers are still consuming at full
speed. One store manager said
Sun Belt prosperity is partly
responsible.
And add to that consumer fears that if
they don't buy now, they won't be able
to buy later.
And it adds up to a Merry Christmas for
retailers.
Gaye Smith, Channel 5 Action News, Dallas.