The COVID-19 pandemic didn't cause the labor shortage, but it certainly amplified the tightened labor market and accelerated the future state of work, particularly for blue-collar workers.
The announcements come as retailers grapple with a global supply chain crunch that looks like it will last through the holidays and well into next year.
The combination of supply chain disruptions and a lack of human workers is wreaking havoc on the industry, causing manufacturers to reevaluate short- and long-term strategies.
The number of ships waiting to enter the biggest U.S. gateway for trade with Asia reached the highest since the pandemic began, exacerbating delays for companies trying to replenish inventories during one of the busiest times of the year for seaborne freight.
