The John Lewis Partnership (JLP), which owns John Lewis and Waitrose stores, have announced they will be offering staff free food this winter to help them cope with the cost of living crisis. From October to January, employees can get free meals during work hours.
Even better, these meals will be available to not just permanent staff, but temporary staff and agency workers, too. With the partnership announcing a recruitment drive of 10,000 seasonal employees this Christmas, it will be a relief to those who work over this period.
The recruitment drive comes not only to cover the holiday season, but due to increased demand. This is due to customers feeling the pressures of the cost of living increase. These roles will be advertised in September and October, according to JLP.
UK inflation is at a staggering 10.1% and expected to rise to almost 18% in the first quarter of 2023. JLP are aiming to do what they can to ease even the smallest amount of stress on their employees.
A spokesman for the JLP has suggested someone working a four-hour shift could choose one meal, either breakfast, lunch or dinner. This is dependent on the time of day. A colleague working an eight-hour shift would be able to choose two meals. The food will be given in different ways, depending on the work they do.
Staff within larger stores, distribution centres or in head offices will have their meals in canteens. Those in convenience and smaller stores will be able to choose from a ‘vending style’ service. This will be items such as receiving salads or sandwiches. Lorry drivers will be able to pre-order a packed lunch to take on the road.
Andrew Murphy, chief operations officer, at JLP said:
“We pride ourselves on creating a happy workplace because it’s our partners who make the difference and it’s thanks to them that John Lewis and Waitrose are two of the UK’s best-loved brands. We are looking forward to welcoming people across the country to grow our team and ensure we deliver a great Christmas for our customers.”
