The move is part of a wider recruitment push across the John Lewis Partnership, with a total of 13,700 seasonal roles being advertised.
Of those roles, 8,500 are Waitrose positions, while 2,000 are within distribution centres and the firm’s wider supply chain network.
The drive has been launched in order to help the retailer manage the ‘golden quarter’, which starts with “the launch of new seasonal ranges and the build up to Black Friday in November, before moving into Christmas and John Lewis’ famous January Winter Sale”.
This period of the year is the busiest for Waitrose, both in store and online.
Successful candidates will receive a “competitive salary” and training, as well as flexible and blended working options.
Commenting on the new roles, chief people officer Jo Rackham said: “We’ve invested heavily to set ourselves up for a great golden quarter, but our excellent service also relies on having brilliant Partners on hand, whenever and wherever our customers need them.
“Whether helping our customers find the perfect gift for a loved one, or the show-stopper for their Christmas lunch, our seasonal teams play a huge role in spreading the festive magic. They’re rewarding roles, at one of the most exciting times of year to work in retail.”
The news comes just days after Waitrose announced the appointment of Tom Denyard as its new managing director.
Denyard will replace James Bailey, who is set to leave the business at the end of September 2025.
