In its biggest seasonal hiring campaign to date, the John Lewis Partnership (JLP) plans to hire 12,500 temporary employees throughout the holiday season.

To help handle the increasing demand, the retail business, which includes Waitrose supermarkets and John Lewis department stores, announced intentions to hire 4,100 more employees than the previous year.

In preparation for Black Friday, Christmas, and January sales, roles will be dispersed throughout Waitrose and John Lewis stores as well as JLP's distribution network.

Recruitment is underway, with Waitrose preparing to fill 7,700 seasonal roles across its 300-plus stores, including positions for supermarket assistants, night shift workers, and delivery drivers.

Meanwhile, the 34 John Lewis department stores are looking to fill around 2,000 roles. The response has already been strong, with only a few vacancies left, according to the retailer.

In addition to in-store staffing, JLP is working with agencies to bring in 2,800 supply chain employees, including warehouse workers and drivers, to meet increased online demand.

JLP reports that the demand for Christmas products is already surging, with sales of Waitrose’s Christmas range up by 25 per cent and decorations in the John Lewis Christmas shop seeing a 20 per cent jump compared to last year.

Charlotte Lock, JLP’s Customer Director, said: “Whether it’s picking the perfect pair of headphones or discovering new ideas for holiday entertaining, we know our customers value the independent, trusted advice our partners offer.

“Our partners are truly at the heart of what makes us unique, and we’re thrilled by the strong interest in these roles, showing just how many people want to be part of the excitement around our brands this Christmas.”