Waitrose plans to recruit 6,000 seasonal roles at 320 branches ahead of the busy Christmas season.

Additionally, there will be a further 1,800 positions across Waitrose’s parent company, John Lewis Partnership’s, distribution centres and supply chain.

The company plans to recruit across all ages and backgrounds to support the business over the busiest trading period of the year.

This comes after a significant £1bn investment at Waitrose, which upgraded both shops and technology designed to give staff members more time to focus on serving customers.

The pay for the seasonal roles begins at £13 or £14.55 in the Greater London area and rises to £13.25 and £14.80 after 30 days.

The chosen candidates will also receive training and flexible and blended working options according to the business.

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The retailer expects to recruit 100 young people who have experienced the care system as part of its broader commitment to supporting youth with its Building Happier Future programme.

Additionally, the company will also offer 300 welcome visits and 250 job-shadowing placements from now until September.

Helen Webb, chief people officer for the John Lewis Partnership, said: “These roles appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds, and we’re excited to welcome great candidates across the board.

“Our seasonal roles are more than just a job for the festive period; for many, they are a catalyst for building confidence and kickstarting a long-term career.

“By offering thousands of roles to under-25s and guaranteeing interviews for care-experienced young people, we are actively helping to break down barriers to employment and investing in the future of our communities.”

The retailer is preparing for its upcoming “golden quarter”, and the Waitrose Christmas range will launch in shops from 21 September.