Yodel is recruiting 2,950 new employees across the country as it prepares for what is expected to be the busiest festive period in recent history.

The new roles include a total of 2,500 self-employed and 450 employed opportunities, including couriers and parcel sorters at one of Yodel’s 50 locations nationwide.

Yodel says its recruitment drive is in response to the demand for online retail, which has increased dramatically during 2020.

The Covid-19 enforced lockdown stimulated a shift in consumer behaviour as shoppers recognised the benefits of ordering goods online.

Data from the Office for National Statistics shows that internet sales made up 32.8% of the total retail sales in the country 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 consumers look to finalise their Christmas shopping as conveniently as possible whilst social distancing restrictions remain in place. 

The 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.  

Mike Hancox, CEO of Yodel, said: “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.”

The parcel carrier handles more than 150 million parcels a year and is headquartered in Hatfield.

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