M&S has announced plans for a seasonal recruitment drive for 11,000 new colleagues to support store teams over the busy festive period.

The new staff members will support the teams during the busiest period of the year, which aims to help the supermarket deliver quality service for customers.

The high street retailer’s applications are now open, with the first colleagues set to join from 25 October onwards.

These roles begin with an hourly wage of £13.41, with successful applicants set to receive training, tools and support needed to quicken all operations.

The Christmas period is one of the most major moments of the year, with millions of customers stocking up on essentials at the retailer.

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According to the business, seasonal staff members are an important part in helping store teams deliver for shoppers over the busy seasonal period.

Thinus Keeve, retail director at M&S, said: “Our brilliant store colleagues play such an important part in delivering the magic of M&S at Christmas, and we’re looking forward to welcoming 11,000 new colleagues to teams this year.

“Christmas is busy, fast-moving and a really exciting time to join M&S.

“We’ll give new colleagues the training, tools and support they need to get up to speed quickly. What matters most is bringing energy, curiosity and a real commitment to doing the right thing for our customers and working as part of the team.”

This comes as major supermarket retailers push towards recruiting seasonal positions ahead of the upcoming holiday period.