Amazon creates 1,000 jobs at new fulfillment centre

The new fulfillment centre was expected to open this autumn.

The online retailer now delivers food and drink products, as part of its Amazon Prime Now business.

Revealing the news today (March 9) Amazon’s vice president of UK Operations, John Tagawa said: “We are excited to open our first fulfillment centre in the North West of England, creating 1,000 new permanent jobs over three years with competitive wages and comprehensive benefits starting on day one.”​

‘Add new permanent jobs’​

Tagawa added: “We are proud to continue to add new permanent jobs to grow our dedicated and enthusiastic workforce, who play a crucial role in delivering a first rate level of service for our customers.”​

The business planned to recruit for a range of positions, including: operations managers, engineers, human resources and IT roles.

Amazon also intended to search for associates who will handle orders at the fulfillment centre near Manchester Airport.

Last month Amazon disclosed plans to create 500 new jobs over the next three years at a new fulfillment centre in Coalville, Leicestershire.

Labour member of Parliament for Wythenshawe and Sale East, Mike Kane welcomed the investment. “This is fantastic news for residents of Wythenshawe and Sale East,​”​ said Kane. 

‘Open up new opportunities’​

“​1,000 new permanent jobs over three years will open up new opportunities for many people in my constituency. This investment is another big step in the renaissance of Wythenshawe.” 

The opening of the two new sites will take the number of Amazon fulfillment centres in the UK to 12.

The latest recruitment drive was part of Amazon’s plan to created 2,500 new UK jobs this year. After filling the roles the business will employ 14,500 staff in this country.

Amazon was said to have invested more than £4.6bn in the UK economy over the past six years.

Permanent employees of Amazon were said to receive a comprehensive benefits package, including: private medical insurance, a company pension plan, life assurance, income protection, subsidised meals and employee discount.

Financial specialist www.money.co.uk​ said there was “just no stopping Amazon”. ​The firm’s Hannah Maundrell told FoodManufacture.co.uk: 

“​Not only have they taken internet shopping by storm over the years, now they are setting up shop in the North of England creating exciting opportunities for locals. ​

“​It’s great to see the online retailer set a good example by creating permanent roles for their workers too.”​