Clothing, accessory, and general merchandise stores-one of the largest employers in the Nation-had about 4.1 million wage and salary jobs in 2002. Department stores accounted for most jobs in the industry, but only about 7 percent of establishments. In 2002, about 7 of 10 workers were employed in clothing, accessory, and general merchandise stores with more than 50 workers. In contrast to many industries, this industry employs workers in all sections of the country, from the largest cities to the smallest towns.

Many of the industry’s workers are young-31 percent were under 24 years old in 2002, compared with 14 percent for all industries. About 29 percent of the workers were employed part time.