Retail giant Marks & Spencer (M&S) has announced plans to recruit more than 11,000 new customer assistants to support its stores across the UK during the upcoming festive period.

The retailer is temporarily expanding its workforce to meet increased demand and deliver exceptional customer service.

This represents a significant increase from last year, with over 1,000 additional vacancies available.

The retailer said customer assistants play a crucial role in M&S, serving customers on the shop floor, ensuring shelves are stocked, and providing recommendations.

They also contribute to the retailer's Christmas Food to Order service, helping to deliver essential festive items to millions of customers.

The recruitment drive will begin on 9 October, with the new colleagues joining M&S from mid-November.

A variety of roles within customer service and flexible working patterns will be offered to accommodate diverse needs.

M&S says it is committed to supporting its store colleagues, with Support Centre staff spending seven days a week in stores each year, including four in the lead-up to Christmas.

Last year, these colleagues contributed more than 103,000 hours to assist stores and customers during the festive season.

“The Christmas period is a busy but exciting time for M&S and no two days are the same - in fact, many colleagues started their M&S careers at Christmas and after the festive period were invited to go onto our Stepping Into Team Manager programme," said Sacha Berendji, operations director at M&S.

"With a range of roles and flexible working patterns available, anyone who is interested in being part of something special this Christmas should visit our careers website to apply.” 

The roles will be available across both M&S' Foods and Clothing & Home departments in stores across the UK.