Sainsbury’s has launched a bumper recruitment drive to take on 22,000 seasonal staff over Christmas to help meet increased demand.

In the face of nationwide shortages, the retail group is also to offer new and existing delivery drivers a bonus of up to £500 over the busy festive period.

The jobs push comes as the government’s coronavirus furlough scheme ends after supporting millions of workers during the pandemic.

Sainsbury’s, which also owns Argos, has said it will be creating 14,500 store roles and hiring 3,000 online delivery drivers, as well as offering 4,500 warehouse and logistics positions.

Roles will be available across the UK from Friday, four weeks earlier than last year, as the firm seeks to get ahead with its yuletide preparations.

Staff hired as part of the recruitment push will be on fixed-term contacts of between three and 12 weeks, with staff working until 8 January next year.

Clo Moriarty, Sainsbury’s retail and digital director, said: “We’re going all out to help our customers celebrate and make sure they have a great Christmas this year.

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“By recruiting 22,000 temporary Sainsbury’s and Argos colleagues on an attractive pay package, incentivising online drivers and offering additional hours to existing colleagues over the festive season, we will deliver what our customers want – great food and fantastic service.

“Christmas is a fun time to work in retail for anyone who enjoys helping customers and thrives on working in an inclusive team environment.

“If that’s what motivates you, we’re ready to welcome you to Sainsbury’s.”

Business minister Paul Scully said: “The government is protecting, supporting and creating jobs across the UK through our plan for jobs and it’s great to see Sainsbury’s launching its biggest ever Christmas recruitment drive.

“These 22,000 jobs being created across the country mean more opportunities for workers and even better service for customers – enough to give Father Christmas some serious competition.”

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