NEW YORK (AP) — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. says it plans to hire 60,000 temporary holiday workers for the crucial holiday season, an increase of 10 percent from last year.

The world's largest retailer also says current workers who want more hours during the holidays will get priority for them. The retailer, based in Bentonville, Ark., has been criticized by labor groups for low pay and intentionally keeping employees' hours low.

The news follows similar announcements from UPS, FedEx and Kohl's, which are also making more temporary hires this year.

A retailer's hiring plans can indicate its expectations for the holiday shopping season, which accounts for 20 percent of the retail industry's annual sales, according to the National Retail Federation.

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