STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Despite announcing the closure of 150 stores over the next two years -- even making some of those closures earlier than expected -- Macy’s is gearing up for a busy holiday season, announcing it will hire more than 31,000 workers over the next several weeks and months.

Macy's, one of the most iconic American department store chains, has faced significant challenges in recent years due to changing consumer behaviors, the

Despite the slated closures, Macy’s is expecting a booming holiday season and planning to hire both full- and part-time workers in preparation for the busiest time of year.