NRF: Retailers add 35,000 jobs in January

Washington, D.C. - Retail industry employment increased by 34,800 jobs in January 2015, as retailers held on and even added to their staffs following the holiday shopping season. According to data from the National Retail Federation, monthly gains occurred in the sporting goods, non-store (e-commerce), and general merchandise store verticals.



Total retail employment increased by 215,600 jobs on a year-to-year basis, according to NRF’s calculations, which do not include automobile dealerships, gasoline stations or restaurants.



“The report only enhances the general attitude that the encouraging employment trend is solid and should continue to move in a positive direction,” said Jack Kleinheinz, NRF chief economist. “Our economy seems to be normalizing.”