U.S. companies from Target and Macy's to package delivery firm UPS plan to hire thousands of seasonal workers ahead of the all-important holiday season.

Macy’s, Inc. M has announced plans to hire more than 31,500 full and part-time seasonal employees for the upcoming holiday season. These positions will support operations at Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s and Bluemercury stores,

The seasonal hirings to prepare for the holiday season rush will take place at Macy's, Bloomingdale's and Bluemercury stores, as well as its distribution centers. The company has also planned four nationwide in-person holiday hiring events at all stores and supply chain locations.

Macy's said on Thursday it will hire more than 31,500 full and part-time employees for the upcoming holiday season - fewer than last year - as the U.S. department store gears up for a busy shopping period.