Sainsbury’s and Argos have announced a nationwide Christmas recruitment drive with 17,500 roles available across the UK.

The seasonal staff members will support teams across the retailer’s supermarkets, convenience stores, warehouses and online fulfilment operations, during the key peak period.

Sainsbury’s will offer free food during shifts for staff members and a colleague discount of 10 per cent at Sainsbury’s and Argos, which increases to 15 per cent every Friday and Saturday.

Tracey Clements, chief retail, logistics and supply chain officer at Sainsbury’s, said: “Christmas is always a special time for our customers and colleagues, and our seasonal team members help make it happen.

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“We look forward to welcoming thousands of new colleagues who will help us deliver great-tasting festive food, brilliant service and fantastic value across our stores, fulfilment centres and delivery operations. Whether someone is joining us for the first time or returning for another Christmas, they’ll play an important role in helping customers celebrate.”

The staff members will keep shelves stocked and support online orders and deliveries to help keep operations running during the Christmas season.

The seasonal staff employees will be employed on fixed-term contracts which range from four to 12 weeks.

People in the UK can apply for the role on the supermarket retailer’s website or communicate with the local store for more information.

Last month the retailers joined The British Retail Consortium (BRC) and the Department for Work and Pensions to launch a work experience scheme aimed at 18 to 24-year-olds who are not in employment, education or training.