// Debenhams says it has successfully filled 7000 jobs ahead of Christmas
// They will work across the retailer’s 165 department stores during the festive trading season
// 500 people from its London HQ will also go to their local stores to help staff
Debenhams has gone on a hiring spree ahead of the crucial Christmas trading season, announcing that it has hired 7000 staff to work across its 165 stores in the coming weeks.
The department store retailer also said it was mobilising volunteers from its central functions too, with 500 people from its London HQ going out to their local Debenhams stores to help over the peak trading period.
Debenhams added that it took a “fresh approach” to its Christmas recruitment drive this year, hiring colleagues not just with retail experience but also from the hospitality industry.
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The range of staff that Debenhams has recruited for includes on the sales floor, in its beauty halls, serving in the restaurant and in stock management.
The retailer said the hiring spree was done to not only meet customer demands during the peak Christmas season, but also as part of a customer experience strategy, with new all new staff given “special training” in customer service and expertise.
“This is about ensuring shoppers across the country enjoy an unforgettable shopping experience supported by enthusiastic staff who are dedicated to going the extra mile,” Debenhams said in a statement.
The 7000 new recruits will start in time for Debenhams’ big Black Friday promotion on November 29.
“We have 109 new employees joining us this Christmas in our Oxford Street store alone and many colleagues that work with us over this period stay on as permanent members of staff, so it is a crucial time in our recruitment calendar and a great opportunity for those seeking a career in retail,” Debenhams regional manager Darren Kay said.
Debenhams is in the middle of a major CVA process after lenders took over the retailer when it fell into administration earlier this year.
Part of the CVA includes the immediate closure of 22 stores after the Christmas season, and rent reductions or lease negotiations on a further 105 stores.
An exact number of how many jobs will be affected from the closures has not been confirmed.
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