Staffing companies predict that there will be a poor demand for temporary labor this holiday season. The outsourcing of some jobs overseas and the increased use of technology are not helping the holiday job market. Many companies are still concerned with cutting costs, and are resistant to taking on temporary staff. Retailers may also be reacting to expectations of a decreased volume of sales this holiday season.
See "Little cheer due for temps at holidays", Anupama Chandrasekaran, Chicago Tribune, November 18, 2003