Tesco has confirmed its plan to recruit more than 28,000 temporary workers across the UK as it gears up for what it expects to be a busy festive trading period.
The company is looking to fill roles across its Superstores and Extra stores, with recruits supporting customers on the shop floor, replenishing shelves and picking orders for home delivery.
Tesco confirmed that a smaller number of temporary positions are also available at its distribution centres.
The retailer is offering flexible shifts throughout the day, including early mornings and evenings, with no previous retail experience required.
Tesco said seasonal employees could also have the opportunity to secure permanent positions after Christmas, subject to vacancies.
Tesco group people services director Ela Golab said: “We’re excited to be recruiting festive colleagues to help make it a season to remember for our customers.
“We are looking for people who can bring warmth, enthusiasm and a helpful service to every shopping trip.
“We’re also keen to hear from applicants who may want to stay with us after Christmas and begin building a career at Tesco.
“No day is ever the same, and festive colleagues will be able to feel the impact they make on every shift, as they send customers home with a smile. What’s more, no experience is necessary – just the right attitude.”
The recruitment drive comes as supermarkets and high street retailers ramp up staffing ahead of the crucial golden quarter.
Sainsbury’s and Argos are recruiting 17,500 temporary workers, while Marks & Spencer has launched a drive to hire 11,000 seasonal store colleagues.
Boots is also looking to bring in 6,000 temporary workers to support its stores over Christmas.
Tesco’s latest hiring plans follow its decision to raise its full-year profit guidance last week after reporting a 6.5 per cent increase in adjusted operating profit to £1.8bn for the first half.
The supermarket now expects full-year adjusted operating profit of between £3.15bn and £3.3bn, up from its previous forecast of £3bn to £3.3bn.
Tesco has also increased its online delivery capacity for the festive period as it prepares for higher demand in the run-up to Christmas.
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