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Supermarket giant Sainsbury’s has launched a massive Christmas recruitment drive, offering 19,000 temporary positions across the country. The retail heavyweight has made 17,000 roles available at its main stores, whilst sister chain Argos requires an additional 2,000 workers.
This nationwide staffing push arrives as rival retailers also boost their workforce numbers in preparation for their most hectic period of the year. With household budgets stretched, it presents an ideal opportunity for those with additional time to generate extra income during what are typically costly months ahead.
Sainsbury’s requires a substantial army of seasonal staff to stock shelves, operate checkouts, work in distribution centres, and handle home deliveries, reports the Mirror.
Wages differ based on position and location, though shop floor positions range from £12.60 to £13.85 per hour, matching warehouse roles. Meanwhile, Argos drivers earn £13.60 to £14.85 per hour, and Sainsbury’s delivery drivers receive £14.10 to £15.35 per hour.
Additionally, Sainsbury’s offers complimentary meals during working hours, with eligible new hires receiving a 10% discount at both Sainsbury’s and Argos, increasing to 15% every Friday and Saturday at Sainsbury’s, plus on payday at Argos. Temporary staff will work under fixed-term agreements lasting between four and 12 weeks. Applications can be submitted here .
Tracey Clements, chief retail, logistics and supply chain Officer at Sainsbury’s, said: “Christmas is when customers count on us most and our colleagues play a vital role in making it truly special.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming thousands of new team members to help us deliver great-tasting festive products, unbeatable value and brilliant service across our stores, fulfilment centres and out on the road, delivering to customers in communities across the UK. Whether joining us for the first time or returning to share the festive spirit once again, we’re proud to grow our team for the most exciting time of the year.”
Sainsbury’s is amongst numerous retailers that have revealed Christmas hiring campaigns, with more expected to follow suit. High street behemoth John Lewis has already started recruiting a record 13,700 Christmas staff members. The John Lewis Partnership has launched its largest-ever hiring drive ahead of the hectic festive shopping period.
Temporary positions will encompass 3,000 roles throughout its 35 John Lewis outlets, 8,500 within Waitrose branches and nearly 2,200 across its distribution centres and logistics network.
Marks and Spencer is similarly seeking temporary personnel who are anticipated to work full-time during the final fortnight before Christmas, and remain available on December 22, 23 and Christmas Eve.
Tesco represents another retail titan searching for additional workers throughout the bustling festive season. Britain’s largest supermarket chain confirms employees will receive wages of £12.64 per hour, increasing to £13.85 for those working within the M25.
An overnight supplement of an extra £2.35 per hour is also available. It’s not only retailers that require additional staff during this season.
Royal Mail has launched its yearly recruitment drive to manage the bustling festive period. The company is hiring 20,000 temporary workers to assist with the transportation, sorting and delivery of the extra parcels and mail anticipated over the holiday season.
There are 12,000 mail centre sorting roles up for grabs in England, 2,000 in Scotland, 600 in Wales and 400 in Northern Ireland.
