Tesco has pledged to create 20,000 new jobs in the UK over the next two years by investing in customer service, refreshing stores and opening new ones.
Starting immediately, the supermarket is investing in additional staff hours and training in an effort to enhance shopper experience, particularly when buying fresh produce, fresh meat, bakery goods and counter services.
It plans to focus on provide a first rung on the career ladder to young people who are currently out of work in an effort to tackle youth unemployment.
Tesco is also expanding its apprenticeship programme to provide 10,000 apprenticeships, with a significant proportion for new starters.
The announcements, which are the first stage in Tesco’s planned new investment in the UK business, have been welcomed by prime minister David Cameron.
"This is a massive confidence boost for the UK economy,” he said.
“Tesco is one of the world’s leading companies and the biggest private sector employer in this country. Their commitment to creating jobs and opportunities for young people at what is a difficult time for the economy is fantastic news for the UK as a whole and for those people they will help into work.”
Tesco UK CEO Richard Brasher has said the announcement is “a major shot in the arm for the UK economy”.
“In unprecedented economic conditions like these, major businesses have a big responsibility to step forward, invest and create jobs.,” he said.
“At the core of this investment is our determination to deliver the best shopping experience for our customers, bar none.
“We will invest in more staff on the sales floor at busy times, greater expertise and help in the crucial areas of fresh food, and enhanced quality and service across our stores at all times.”
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