// Halfords launches recruitment drive to meet rising demand for cycling

// Bicycle and car part specialist looks to add 1100 temporary staff for festive period

A surge in demand for bicycles means Halfords is recruiting 1100 temporary jobs for the festive season.

The temporary vacancies are in addition to a recruitment drive for a wide range of permanent positions across Halford’s stores.

“With the public turning to alternatives to public transport, this has led to extra demand for bikes and essential motoring services,” Halford head of resourcing Andy McBride said.

READ MORE: Cycling sales boost Halfords’ profits as people avoid public transport

Cycling director Paul Tomlinson said: “There has been huge interest in cycling this year as the public seek alternatives to public transport and as a way of keeping fit.

“As a result we’ve seen a massive surge in demand and sales of bikes and cycling products.

“We have had tens of thousands of customers on waiting lists for deliveries and this has continued beyond the traditional summer peak, particularly for adult bikes as lockdown continues.

“Kids’ and junior bikes also appear to be one of the most wanted Christmas presents this year.”

The news comes as Halfords last week announced a 116 per cent increase in underlying profits to £56 million in the 26 weeks to October 2.

The cycling and car specialist said retail like-for-likes rose 8.1 per cent to £524 million in the half year results.

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