Supply chains have been stressed by an increase in e-commerce
Walmart is looking to spruce up its supply chain. The world’s largest employer announced on Sept. 1 that it wants to hire 20,000 new employees to work in its distribution and fulfillment centers.
Jobs in these areas are some of the highest in demand as the global supply chain continues trying to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The positions include freight handlers, lift drivers, order fillers, technicians, and management. They will be permanent, and include full-time and part-time roles, according to Walmart.
“As our business continues evolving to meet the needs of today’s customers, having a robust supply chain is more important than ever,” the company said. “That’s why we’re excited to announce that our team is growing.”
An increase in online shopping has led to more urgency for companies to hire warehouse workers. The pandemic only accelerated the shift towards e-commerce.
Holiday’s approaching
Now, with the holidays just around the corner, retailers are working fast to keep their supply chains intact and up for the task of keeping pace with increasing demand.
Walmart is banking on higher wages to try and lure workers in, with the company reporting the average pay for its supply chain associates at $20.37 per hour.
“We know that offering competitive pay is essential in order to build a network for the future,” the company said.
The hiring surge comes at a time when employers around the country are struggling to find employees to work. More than half of retailers have said they are having “significant challenges,” finding warehouse workers, according to an August survey conducted by Korn Ferry as reported by CNN Business.
A tough task
Walmart will hold special hiring events on Sept. 8 and Sept. 9 to try and fill the open warehouse positions.
Craig Rowley, a senior client partner at Korn Ferry who specializes in retail, told CNN Business he expects the global retailer won’t have an easy path to reach its hiring goal.
“The demand for distribution center workers continues to skyrocket,” Rowley said. “Everyone who has a desire to be a distribution center worker already has a job.”
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