Gap Inc. Hiring 63,000 Seasonal Employees To Serve Customers Among All Channels
By Megan Zielinski, contributing writer
Gap Inc. hosted holiday hiring events in Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic and Athleta stores throughout the U.S this past week—marking it as the company’s first Holiday Hiring Blitz to seek talented, compassionate worker to add to the holiday team.
Gap announced plans to hire 63,000 workers to fill positions between all four stores, distribution and call centers—more than gigantic retailer, Walmart, who confirmed to employ 60,000 for the 2014 holiday period. The move is one of the most massive hiring occurances to take place among leading retailers.
Interested candidates had the opportunity to conveniently schedule an interview time online at their local Gap brand store or even apply on the spot as walk-in interviews were accepted. Stores sought new team members while welcoming back previous seasonal associates. Gap is giving employees the chance to build career experience, strengthen professional and personal skills, and learn more about Gap brands.
Seasonal employees will be placed on store floors to assist in-store shoppers, respond to high levels of customer communications at the call centers, and help process increased holiday online shipment orders at the distribution centers. Gap is focused on giving customers the best shopping experience throughout all channels during the busiest time of the year. “Whether our customers are shopping in our stores, online or on mobile devices, our top priority is providing a seamless experience during the craze of holiday shopping,” said Dan Henkle, SVP Gap Inc.
As a result of positive sales during the nine-week holiday period last year—Gap is including more helping hands to prepare for yet another busy year. Enhancements in Gap’s omnichannel capabilities including ship-from-store, reserve-in-store, updated mobile apps, affordable new styles, and engaging promotions have contributed to strong 2013 holiday sales—even during a time when the retail industry suffered from economic conditions such as higher health care costs, high prices in gas, harsh cold conditions and changes in consumer’s spending behaviors. In total, foot traffic throughout the retail industry plummeted by 14.6 percent compared to the holiday season last year. By offering convenient services and appealing fashions for all types of consumers, Gap managed to prevail such shortcomings. “We’re focused on delivering an incredible store experience and making it even more convenient for our customers to shop with us however and whenever they want,” says Tom Sands, executive VP, Gap North America.