March 28, 2018
The number of retail industry jobs increased by 46,400 in February and the National Retail Federation calls it a "significant positive sign" for the industry overall.
The figure does not include gas station, auto sellers and restaurants, according to a NRF press release.
"This substantial gain in retail jobs is a significant positive sign regarding the health and viability of the industry," NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said in the release. "It is stronger than expected and there were broad gains across most retail sectors. With tax reform in effect, consumer confidence increasing and strong underlying economic fundamentals, 2018 is off to a good start and we expect a prosperous year ahead."
The February growth was more than four times the jump of 10,800 jobs seen in January over December, according to the release.