The U.S. Postal Service, United Parcel Service and FedEx expect a year-end surge in parcel delivery, fueled by booming online shopping during the holiday season. This translates into delivering 4 billion packages this year, a 13% increase over the same peak season 2014. One issue last year was how carriers failed to deliver packages by Christmas Eve in 2013 so they took on more seasonal assistance in 2014. 2014 proved to be a slower season and fourth quarter profits suffered.
This year, FedEx hired almost 55,000 seasonal employees to help manage the additional volumes, up 10% from 2014. The company further invested billions of dollars to increase the capacity and automation of its network. By expanding and building facilities, they hope to meet the shift in consumer shopping habits which has put heavy pressure on shipping companies to enhance deliveries. Major retailers expected an increase in package volume and placed more seasonal employees in fulfillment centers dedicated to online orders. Macy’s planned to hire 85,000 seasonal employees, with 12,000 of them based in direct-to-consumer fulfillment centers, 2,000 more than2014. Kohl’s also put 2,000 more holiday workers in distribution centers compared with their hiring information from 2014.
Having a strong background and working knowledge of the supply chain is crucial to employment during peak season. BCS understands the unique demands that companies face during the year end rush. Our candidates have a 90% chance of going from temporary to permanent, with a 95% retention rate for direct hires. We understand the needs of our clients who are looking for help and looking for work and during peak season we are overcome with joy at matching so many exceptional professionals with extraordinary opportunities. Thank you for such a successful year!
