The National Retail Federation expects retailers to hire between 585,000 and 650,000 temporary workers this holiday season, up from last year’s 582,500.

Several companies have already announced plans to increase seasonal holiday hiring this year.

The retail trade association also expects holiday retail sales in November and December – excluding automobiles, gasoline and restaurants – to increase between 4.3% and 4.8% over 2017 to a total of $717.45 billion to $720.89 billion. The forecast compares with an average annual increase of 3.9% over the past five years.

“Last year’s strong results were thanks to growing wages, stronger employment and higher confidence, complemented by anticipation of tax cuts that led consumers to spend more than expected,” said NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz. “With this year’s forecast, we continue to see strong momentum from consumers as they do the heavy lifting in supporting our economy. The combination of increased job creation, improved wages, tamed inflation and an increase in net worth all provide the capacity and the confidence to spend.”

The National Retail Federation’s holiday forecast is based on an economic model using several indicators including consumer credit, disposable personal income and previous monthly retail sales. The number includes online and other non-store sales.