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Parcel carrier Yodel announces 2,950 new UK jobs in time for Christmas

Yodel vans
New job will include couriers and parcel sorters, among other roles. Photo: Yodel

UK parcel carrier Yodel has announced it will recruit 2,950 workers across UK in time for Christmas, which is predicted to be “the busiest festive period in recent history.”

The new jobs include 2,500 self-employed and 450 employed opportunities, including couriers and parcel sorters across Yodel’s 50 nation wide locations.

The recruitment drive is in response to increased demand for online retail, which has increased dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic, the company said.

The coronavirus crisis, and subsequent national lockdown forced a shift in consumer culture, with shoppers turning to online shopping more and more, and many continue to shop online in an effort to maintain social distancing while the virus is still a threat.

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Data from the Office for National Statistics shows that internet sales made up 32.8% of the total retail sales in the UK during May — a record high — and have remained significantly above pre-lockdown levels since.

This trend is expected to continue in the winter months, as Brits attempt to get their Christmas shopping done while social distancing restrictions remain in place — especially amid fears of a second wave, which forced the UK government to implement stricter measures this week.

This announcement follows Yodel’s investment plans to create a brand new Northern super-hub to support the business’s long-term growth and keep up with demands for deliveries.

“The ongoing growth in online retail is set to continue into the festive season as consumers flock to buy gifts for friends, family and loved ones,” said Mike Hancox, CEO of Yodel.

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“We’re expecting this peak period to be higher in intensity and longer in duration than ever before as people look to prepare for Christmas earlier.

“That’s why, as we prepare for a period of sustained demand, we are looking to welcome more than 2,900 new colleagues, bolstering our operations to ensure customers and clients receive the excellent service they deserve.

“At Yodel we pride ourselves on our people, and our colleagues all enjoy the team spirit and opportunity to play a part in important community initiatives such delivering food to NHS hospitals.”

Watch: UK online job ads at highest since March