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 as both firms deal with expected increased demand over the Christmas period.

Aldi said its positions will include store assistants, managerial positions and cleaners.

Aldi is also recruiting across its regional distribution centres, with around 1,500 roles available, including warehouse selectors, logistics assistants and warehouse cleaners.

Kelly Stokes, recruitment director at Aldi UK, said: “It’s never been more important to us to make affordable high-quality food accessible to all, especially at Christmas. That’s why we’re looking forward to welcoming thousands of new colleagues to our stores and regional distribution centres over the coming months.

“Our colleagues play such a vital role in keeping our shelves stocked throughout the year, which is why we will once again be keeping our stores closed on Boxing Day as a way to say thank you for their continued hard work.”

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.

Morrisons said it was 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.

Clare Grainger, people director at Morrisons, said: “Christmas is one of our busiest periods and we’re looking for an additional 3,500 people to join our talented teams.

“These new colleagues will play a crucial role in creating and delivering the products our customers need to help make their celebrations special.

“There are lots of great opportunities on offer across the UK with both temporary and permanent roles in our stores, manufacturing and logistics sites.”