Why Older Workers Are in Demand

As younger workers increasingly pursue gig economy jobs, retailers struggle to find reliable part-time staff. In response, many are turning to an often-overlooked talent pool: older adults.

In her recent Next Avenue article, Margie Zable Fisher spotlights this shift through the story of Susan Olson, a 75-year-old Home Depot employee who’s become a standout team member. Olson’s dedication, customer rapport, and consistent presence challenge outdated assumptions about older workers—and reflect a broader trend.

Fewer teens are entering the workforce (down from 44.5% in 2003 to 36.9% in 2023), while employment among adults 65+ is steadily rising. Older workers are proving to be a dependable, skilled, and often enthusiastic solution for retailers facing high turnover and staffing gaps. Read more…

Read the full article to explore how retirees are reshaping the retail workforce: “Unretired? Your Favorite Store Needs You” by Margie Zable Fisher