It may seem far away, but some of the nation's biggest retailers are already thinking about hiring for the upcoming holiday season. 

Analysts say that seven big-name stores will add nearly 400,000 seasonal jobs across the country this year, including hundreds locally. 

For a second straight year, Macy's is expected to lead the pack with 86,000 job openings. Target is predicted to be close behind, bringing on 70,000 seasonal workers. Toys "R" Us and JCPenney round out the top four hiring companies for 2014 with 45,000 and 35,000 positions respectively. 

Major retailers say that most of the openings will be in sales, and in their online and distribution centers. 

Experts believe the increase in available jobs this season is due to a number of factors, including a better economy, leading to more spending.