// Co-op creates 5000 store-based jobs to provide temporary employment for hospitality workers affected by coronavirus
// Co-op will simplify its recruitment process so successful candidates can start work within days
// Permanent jobs will also be on offer at the Co-op’s 2600 stores across the country
The Co-op is to create 5000 store-based posts which will provide temporary employment for hospitality workers who have lost their jobs because of the coronavirus crisis.
The grocery retailer said it is simplifying its recruitment process so successful candidates can start work within days.
Permanent jobs will also be on offer at the Co-op’s 2600 stores across the country.
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“The Co-op has a critical role to play in supporting our members, customers and colleagues, as well as the local communities that our stores sit at the heart of,” Co-op Food chief executive Jo Whitfield said.
“Whilst our store and depot colleagues are working around the clock to ensure people have the essentials they need, we are all too aware that many people working in bars, pubs and restaurants are currently out of work.
“It makes perfect sense for us to try and temporarily absorb part of this highly skilled and talented workforce who are so adept at delivering great customer service, as we work together to feed the nation.
“We’re talking to a large number of organisations whose workforces have been affected by this situation.
“To anyone in this position who is looking for a job in one of our stores, our message is simple – please get in touch now. We’ve made the application process quicker than ever and hope to have new colleagues on the ground within a day or two.
“What we need now is genuine, tangible co-operation as we look to support the wider economy and help the nation overcome this challenging period.”
The Co-op is not the only grocer going on a recruitment drive to meet the surge spurring on by customers panic-buying due to the coronavirus crisis.
Earlier this week, Morrisons said it would do “its bit during the emergency” by expanding home delivery to more households and create an extra 3500 jobs – 2500 pickers and drivers and 1000 jobs at distribution centres.
Like the Co-op, the Big 4 retailer said it would offer the jobs to “people that are impacted” by the coronavirus pandemic.
The Co-op added that staff in business support roles who are not currently working in stores or distribution centres are being encouraged to “lend-a-hand” in their local branches to help replenish shelves.
Earlier this week the Co-op announced measures to combat holiday hunger in pupils caused by unplanned school closures.
Around 6500 students across 25 Co-op Academy Schools who currently have free school meals will be given a £20 voucher for every week that schools remain shut.
with PA Wires
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