Amazon has announced that it will create 1,500 new apprenticeships in the UK this year as it revealed its workforce in the country grew to 70,000 in 2021.

The online retail giant said it was offering new places on 40 different schemes – including 200 degree-level places – in areas such as publishing, retailing, marketing, and environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG).

Amazon also revealed that it had grown its workforce by 25,000 last year.

It had previously said it would create 10,000 roles in 2021 and end the year with 55,000 permanent employees.

But it then recruited an additional 15,000 for its fulfilment centres, sorting centres and delivery stations across the UK as well for corporate and research and development roles.

Amazon said it has invested £32bn in the UK since 2010.

Its expansion in 2021 included its first 17 physical stores in the UK – 15 Amazon Fresh food stores in London, and two Amazon four-star retail stores in London and Kent.

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The company, which is frequently the subject of criticism over working conditions, said employees were attracted to take jobs with it because of career potential, wage and benefits.

Amazon UK country manager John Boumphrey said: “We are proud to have created so many new permanent jobs across the UK in the last year, and the 1,500 apprenticeships we’re creating this year will help even more people get the skills that are in demand in today’s labour market.

“We want to be the employer that helps people take their careers to the next level, whether you’re just starting your first job or making a career change, in every community that we serve across the UK.”

Business secretary Kwasi Kwarteng said: “Amazon’s announcement is testament to the strength of the British economy, with GDP back at pre-pandemic levels, employee numbers at record highs and unemployment falling.

“With the vast majority of Amazon’s workforce located outside of London and the South East, these additional 25,000 jobs highlight the success of our Plan for Jobs in helping to ensure greater opportunities across the country.”

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