Two supermarket giants have announced plans to recruit thousands of workers ahead of the busy festive season.

Aldi is creating 3,000 permanent and temporary jobs, while Morrisons is looking for 3,500 extra staff to work in its stores, food manufacturing sites and logistics operations.

It is hoped that this major recruitment will help the supermarkets deal with the expected increased demand over the Christmas period.

“It’s never been more important to us to make affordable high-quality food accessible to all, especially at Christmas,” said Kelly Stokes, recruitment director at Aldi UK.

“That’s why we’re looking forward to welcoming thousands of new colleagues to our stores and regional distribution centres over the coming months."

Starting pay for store assistants at Aldi is £11.40 an hour nationally, and £12.85 inside the M25. Aldi said it also remains the only supermarket in the UK to offer paid breaks.

Nationwide, the superstore is also looking for store assistants, managerial positions and cleaners, as well as around 1,500 workers of various titles within its regional distribution centres.

This ranges from warehouse selectors, logistics assistants and warehouse cleaners.

Morrisons has also announced a major recruitment drive.

The supermarket has said it is looking for 3,500 extra staff to work in its stores, food manufacturing sites and logistics operations, adding that the range of roles offered flexibility and with no prior experience necessary.