
Every year, retailers ramp up hiring to meet the demands of the busy shopping season. From stocking shelves to running registers, seasonal hires are the backbone of holiday operations. But behind the scenes, managers are sounding the alarm: training gaps are leaving new hires unprepared, overwhelmed, and underperforming. These gaps don’t just affect employee morale—they impact customer service, inventory accuracy, and even coupon redemption at checkout. For shoppers and couponers alike, understanding these challenges can help explain why your favorite store might feel a little off during peak times.