Debenhams to recruit 6,500 for Christmas

Stores giant Debenhams is to recruit 6,500 temporary workers to deal with the busy Christmas period, the firm announced today.

The jobs will run from mid-November until the beginning of January, averaging 40 in each of the company's 163 stores.

Michael Sharp, chief executive of Debenhams, said: "These jobs are sure to be welcomed by local economies during the most financially challenging part of the year.

"Approximately a quarter of staff that work with us over the festive season will stay on in permanent roles, making this a crucial period in our employment calendar."

The jobs will be based in the menswear, womenswear, accessories, childrenswear, home, gift or cosmetics departments.

Meanwhile, retailer B&Q said it will recruit 20 graduates under a new fast-track programme offering successful candidates the chance to be a store manager within two to three years.

Chief executive Euan Sutherland said: "Competition in the graduates' job market is fierce, but successful candidates will be offered a fantastic fast-track learning experience."

Source: PA