Sainsbury’s and Argos have launched a nationwide festive recruitment drive for 19,000 seasonal roles.

The recruitment drive includes 17,000 roles at Sainsbury’s and 2,000 at Argos. Duties range from replenishing shelves to serving customers at the tills and delivering last-minute gifts to customers’ homes.

The retailer is providing free food during its shifts over the festive season, and is offering eligible staff a 10% discount at Sainsbury’s and Argos, rising to 15% every Friday and Saturday at Sainsbury’s, and on payday at Argos.

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The business noted that it had also upskilled existing workers to manage on-demand orders and work flexibly across the store, “helping build a more agile workforce ready to serve customers however and whenever they choose to shop”.

Seasonal staff will be hired on fixed-term contracts ranging from four to 12 weeks.

Sainsbury’s chief retail, logistics and supply chain officer Tracey Clements said: “Christmas is when customers count on us most and our colleagues play a vital role in making it truly special.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming thousands of new team members to help us deliver great-tasting festive products, unbeatable value and brilliant service across our stores, fulfilment centres and out on the road, delivering to customers in communities across the UK.

“Whether joining us for the first time or returning to share the festive spirit once again, we’re proud to grow our team for the most exciting time of the year.”

It comes after rival supermarket Aldi launched a Christmas recruitment drive last month, as it geared up for the busy festive period and its future expansion plans.