Coronavirus: Tesco announces 20,000 new jobs as Aldi, Asda and Lidl also look to recruit amidst crisis

21 March 2020, 15:33 | Updated: 21 March 2020, 23:24

Supermarket giant Tesco is looking for 20,000 new staff to ease the intense pressure as shoppers continue to panic-buy during the Coronavirus outbreak.

The applications will be fast-tracked as they want people to start straight away to help them cope with the 'unprecedented demand'.

Most positions are temporary but will be for at least 12 weeks. There is also the incentive of getting paid almost immediately after starting.

The job openings are aimed at those who have lost their jobs as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Click here for the NHS' latest advice about coronavirus

Natasha Adams, Tesco's chief people officer, said: "I'm so proud to be welcoming thousands of new colleagues to Tesco.

"Thank you to everyone offering to help as we work day and night to keep our shelves full for customers.

"The community spirit at Tesco is fantastic and together, we can do this."

The store has also announced a 10% bonus on hourly rate for hours worked to colleagues across stores, distribution and customer engagement.

Read more: Quarantined Brits are setting up ‘virtual pubs’ with their mates after Government coronavirus plan shuts pubs

Rivals Asda, Aldi Co-op and Lidl are also on a recruitment drive.

Aldi are looking for 9,000 people, Adsa and Co-op are looking for 5,000 new staff while Lidl is recruiting for 2,500 positions.

All of the supermarkets have now placed restrictions on key items such as soap, hand sanitiser, pasta, toilet roll and milk to allow everyone to get their shopping done as they face self-isolation.