Local Businesses may or may not need seasonal workers in Wicomico County this winter
Wicomico County, Md. – The holiday season is approaching fast, and while many businesses may need an extra hand, residents may want extra cash this winter. People spend hundreds, even thousands of dollars during the holiday season. For some businesses, it’s a question of staff, and for others, it’s a matter of sales.
‘Scrambling for Sales’
Salisbury Chambers of Commerce President Bill Chambers says small businesses, will be scrambling for sales this holiday season. He says that some are even teaming up and giving collective discounts to maintain revenue. “We’ve had the highest rate of consumer credit card debt that we’ve had since before COVID. So, seasonal workers are not as in demand as they have been in the past because consumers are spending less.”
Chambers says the age of technology add another layer. “We’re also facing stiff competition, from all the online retailers. It certainly doesn’t take a seasonal employee to do online work when you’re buying from a big box store online. So, unfortunately, the demand is going to be depressed.”
Some won’t Suffer
Not all stores will suffer. Boscov’s, a retail store that has been around for over 50 years, hasn’t had many issues due to the economy. Human Resource Manager Tracie Vonarx says they haven’t seen a decrease in sales, which is why they needed to mass hire. “We had 125 applicants in a matter of 4-5 hours. There were 10 of us constantly interviewing. We made 42 offers, they start Sunday. So, it’s just a rapid-fire go, go, go.”
Although online shopping is popular, Vonarx says people still like to come in and shop for their loved ones. “We’re one of the larger stores that are still open, a lot have closed. So, many people come here to shop, and you can get everything; toys, shoes, perfume, jewelry, anything.”
Seasonal Employees Stay
Vonarx says about 85% of the part-time hires stay on full-time. For those still looking, Chambers says, the warehousing industry may be able to help. “UPS, FedEx, Amazon, which all have opportunities on the lower shore, they hire.” Says Chambers.
“Because again, even though a lot of online shopping takes place, guess how those get shipped? All those packages get shipped through those big warehousing companies. So, those opportunities are still there, and the hourly pay is quite impressive.”
Boscov’s says they are still hiring and have about 8 available spots. You can pick up an application at their customer service desk or visit their website.
