Overall, the number of wage and salary jobs in clothing, accessory, and general merchandise stores is expected to increase 7 percent over the 2006-16 period, compared with the 11 percent increase projected for all industries combined. Growth of this industry is extremely dependent on consumers’ spending habits and the health of the economy. Growth will be the result of continued increases in spending on clothing, accessories, and general merchandise, together with an increasing number of consumers, and will keep in line with the overall growth of the economy. Many wholesale clubs and superstores will expand and create many jobs in this industry, especially in sales and related occupations. Job growth will also stem from the continued growth and popularity of family clothing stores.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition