By james art The retail group said it would hire staff at its John Lewis and Waitrose stores.
JLP said the firm will hire 4,100 more temporary workers than in the same period last year.
John Lewis and Waitrose to hire 12,500 new staff for ‘busiest time of year’
The roles will be in Waitrose and John Lewis stores across the UK to help during the busiest time of the year – in the run up to Black Friday, Christmas and the John Lewis January sale period.
- Assistants in a supermarket
- Night shift workers
- Customer delivery drivers
While recruitment for 2,000 temporary positions across John Lewis’ 34 UK stores is already underway.
The retailer said there were a “small number” of spaces remaining after strong interest.
UK high street shops that no longer exist
JLP is also recruiting around 2,800 workers in its supply chain, through agencies, which will be used to fill roles such as warehouse workers and drivers to cope with increased online demand.
John Lewis and Waitrose are the latest retailers to announce a major recruitment drive ahead of the 2024 Christmas period, joining Aldi and Morrisons.
Already strong demand for Christmas products
JLP said it has already seen strong demand for Christmas products in recent weeks.
RECOMMENDED READING:
Volumes from its Waitrose Christmas range were up 25% (year-on-year) and sales of decorations from the John Lewis Christmas store were also up 20%.
Chief Customer Officer at JLP, Charlotte Lock, said: “Whether we’re making sure you’re choosing the right headphones or looking for inspirational food ideas for entertaining, we know customers value the independent, trusted advice they get from our partners and that friendly , personal attitude.
“Our partners have always been at the heart of what sets us apart – we’re thrilled with the interest the roles have already received and that people want to be part of the excitement that surrounds our two brands at Christmas.”