Sainsbury’s has kicked off its 2024 Christmas recruitment drive.
The supermarket is on the hunt for 18,000 Sainsbury’s workers and a further 2,000 at Argos, to work in stores, in warehouses and across its fulfilment network. It’s around 2,000 less roles but begins a week earlier than last year’s recruitment.
Pay rates have increased following Sainsbury’s ‘biggest ever’ investment in pay in January, with store staff and fulfilment roles paid between £12 or £13.15 per hour based on location. Drivers will receive £13 or £14.65 per hour depending on where they’re based.
Contracts on offer are between three and 12 weeks.
All seasonal workers are offered free food during their shift, as well as a 10% discount at Sainsbury’s and Argos stores. Discount rises to 15% at Sainsbury’s every Friday and Saturday, and at Argos on payday.
“As the festive season draws near, we’re getting ready to create a memorable Christmas for our customers – and our brilliant colleagues play a central role in bringing this to life,” said Sainsbury’s chief people officer Prerana Issar.
“Joining us during this busy time is a fantastic opportunity to meet great people and acquire skills that will stay with you long after the festive season. Our amazing store colleagues play a huge role in making Sainsbury’s the first choice for our customers, ensuring that good food is joyful, accessible and affordable, however households choose to celebrate.
“Whether you’ll be new to the team or returning to share the Christmas spirit again, we’re so happy to have you with us,” Issar said.
Sainsbury’s preparations for Christmas officially began last week, with the launch of its seasonal food range and lines already rolling into stores. The full offer will be rolled out from November.
After the success of its ‘food first’ and Next Level strategy, which has helped Sainsbury’s gain significant market share over the past year, bosses are in a buoyant mood going into the golden quarter.
Sainsbury’s has invested heavily into improving availability across its stores, as well as into innovation in its premium own label, in a bid to go toe to toe with Tesco this year.
One senior Sainsbury’s executive told The Grocer they’re anticipating its ”best-ever Christmas” sales as a result of the strategy.
It’s the second major grocer to begin its seasonal job hunt, after M&S last week. The high-end retailer wants to fill 11,000 roles across its stores and supply chain.
No comments yet