The firm behind John Lewis and Waitrose is looking to hire 7000 people in temporary roles this Christmas, as it anticipates high customer demand for goods.

Employee-owned John Lewis Partnership said that is 2000 more workers than it sought a year earlier in preparation for the busy festive trading period.

At Waitrose the jobs will be across some 331 branches, with roles including supermarket assistants and night shift workers. Delivery drivers will also be sought.

More people will also be needed to work in John Lewis’ 34 shops.

On top of that, John Lewis Partnership, which is chaired by Sharon White, is recruiting 550 permanent full-time driver and warehouse roles.

The retail sector is grappling with a shortage of HGV drivers, due to a number of factors, such as a backlog of driving tests due to the pandemic.

Nikki Humphrey, people director at the John Lewis Partnership, said: “We know that as the first Christmas after lockdown, customers will want to make it really special and we're throwing everything we can into helping them celebrate - our festive team will have a crucial role to play.”