UK: Waitrose to create up to 2,000 jobs through store expansions

UK supermarket chain Waitrose has announced it intends to create up to 2,000 new jobs through new store openings in 2014. The retailer unveiled plans to open 26 new UK stores in total, of which 15 will be supermarkets and 11 will be ‘Little Waitrose’ convenience outlets.

“During 2012 many of our new branches received than more than 10 applications for every vacancy – so we’re delighted to be able to create an additional 2,000 roles”, said Waitrose director of development, Nigel Keen. “As part of the recruitment process, we will be continuing to set aside apprentice roles for those who have little or no experience of the working world.”

New locations are to include Teignmouth, Edenbridge, Keynsham, Lock Heath, Sherborne, Hove, Leek, Swindon, Hereford, Egham, Malmesbury and Chester. Meanwhile new convenience stores are earmarked for East Putney and West Hampstead.

The new stores will increase Waitrose’s UK footprint by adding nearly 350,000 sq ft of selling space, FDIN reports.

Source: FDIN