Hobby shops, musicians and fabric stores led US job growth over the 18 months to June. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows these three categories gained the most jobs relative to their own size. Together they make up a tiny share of the labour force. Yet their combined gains accounted for a large share of all jobs added. CNN links the trend to shoppers buying small treats after years of high inflation. Cars and homes have moved out of reach for many buyers. Younger people are also taking up crafts and attending in-person events as AI spreads. Store owners interviewed say people want community that a computer cannot supply. PNC card data shows spending at hobby, toy and game stores rose in July from a year earlier. Craft and fabric store sales also rose.

• hobby/toy/game retail +35,000 jobs, +29%
• musical groups +9,000 jobs, +25%
• sewing/fabric retail +7,000 jobs, +24%
• 9% of all jobs added in 18 months