Americans hoping to pick up work this Christmas season may be out of luck. Retail hiring intentions for the fourth quarter of 2008 are the lowest in 17 years, according to a report released this week by industry-leading employment agency Manpower Inc.

The retail industry is scaling back in preparation for expected poor holiday sales, as consumers curtail their retail spending in light of exorbitant fuel prices, decreased credit availability, and nationwide layoffs.

While the retail industry expects to hire fewer seasonal workers than in any year since 1991, the hiring pool for seasonal employees will be stronger than in previous years due to layoffs. This is because more highly-skilled and experienced workers are currently unemployed, and may seek relief through a temporary retail job.

Fifty-two percent of retailers plan to do no additional hiring for the Christmas season. Stores that plan to hire are beginning their recruitment processes this month.

Consumer credit counselors suggest seasonal jobs as a way to help stay out of debt.

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