Huge festive recruitment drive launched by Tesco as it looks to fill 30,000 jobs

Even more opportunities for employment over the Christmas season as a huge festive recruitment drive has been launched by Tesco ahead of the busy holiday period this year.

And that should be good news for job-hunting students and families looking to offset increasing bills or anyone wanting to return to the workforce.

This year Tesco is recruiting 30,000 temporary Colleagues across the UK to help customers during the busy Christmas period.    

The jobs will mainly involve working in Tesco’s Superstores and Extra stores for either early morning, day or evening shifts, so that prospective applicants can find an opportunity that fits around them.

James Goodman, Tesco People Director said: “This is a great opportunity for anyone looking to boost their earnings over the festive period or who needs to find a route back into the workplace. 

“We’re looking for people who enjoy working as part of a team and are prepared to go that extra mile in order to help our customers.  

“Our festive roles are a fantastic way to become part of the Tesco team, with roles working on checkouts to picking orders for home delivery or replenishing the store. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to meet great people, learn new skills and be part of a diverse team where everyone is welcome. 

“We had a great response for festive roles last year and we would love to hear from anyone who worked with us then.  

“With part-time, temporary roles available across the UK, there are a variety of different shift patterns on offer, making sure these roles fit around different individual needs and lifestyles.”  

The new colleagues will help the supermarket meet high demand as customers look to make Christmas savings – especially as Tesco has just locked low prices on more than 1000 products until 2024 – as well as helping shoppers get exclusive deals on Clubcard Prices at the checkout.

Once the seasonal period comes to an end, there may be opportunities for Christmas colleagues to apply for any permanent roles available in Tesco stores.   

One person who did that last year is Kenzy Talbot, 28, who joined Tesco last November as a festive colleague and worked in the fresh food sales area.

Kenzy said: “I'm a working mum with a young child, as you can imagine trying to fit work around school times in the past was very difficult.

“Tesco has been amazing and with their flexibility this has meant that I have been able to fit my working hours around my family commitments.

“I was delighted to become a permanent member of the team in January 2023. I have progressed and learnt other areas of the store, currently working most of my hours on groceries along with picking up extra shifts on other areas such as checkouts and fresh areas.”

Anyone interested in a festive job at Tesco should apply to: www.tesco-careers.com/festive    

'Tis the time for seasonal recruitment: 22,000 jobs now available at Sainsbury’s

Sainsbury’s is creating 22,000 extra seasonal roles nationwide, including 2,000 at Argos, to help deliver an exceptional Christmas for customers this year. 

With stores and warehouses beginning to prepare themselves for the festive season, Sainsbury’s will welcome temporary colleagues earlier than usual this year, starting as early as this week. 

This will ensure there are plenty of colleagues ready to help and serve customers, whether they like to plan ahead or leave their Christmas shopping to the very last minute. (My wife likes to do that!)

New colleagues will support Sainsbury’s and Argos in serving customers, restocking shelves and fulfilling online orders by picking, packing and delivering. In their depots and fulfilment centres, colleagues will work in warehouses, ensuring products reach homes and stores nationally and are ready for customers to enjoy.

To further support and reward colleagues with festive season expenses, Sainsbury’s has improved its 10% colleague discount offer, increasing it to 15% at Sainsbury’s every Friday and Saturday plus 15% off at Argos every payday Friday. Moreover, temporary colleagues can now receive a second discount card for a family member or friend at the same address and free food during shifts.

Prerana Issar, Chief People Officer at Sainsbury’s, said “⁠With Christmas just round the corner, we're gearing up to serve our customers brilliantly this festive season. This is the busiest time in the retail calendar, and we are looking for people with a passion for good food who can thrive in a fast-paced environment and are committed to providing brilliant customer service. 

This is a perfect opportunity to kickstart a career with Sainsbury's, and we can't wait to welcome new and returning faces this Christmas.”

Temporary colleagues will be employed on fixed-term contracts ranging from three to 12 weeks. To join the Sainsbury’s or Argos team this Christmas, visit sainsburys.jobs/christmas/ or your nearby store for more information. 

Incidentally, Sainsbury’s pays its colleagues above the National Living Wage. Temporary colleagues can expect pay rates of:

In-store Jobs: £11 – £11.95 p/h

Fulfilment Warehouse Jobs: £11 – £11.95/hr

Driver Jobs: £12 – £13.45/hr

Temporary colleagues will have access to these benefits after just four weeks of service

Varies by location, please check.

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Morrisons Christmas delivery slots will be released soon

Morrisons delivery slots will be released on October 18, giving customers the chance to plan ahead for the busy festive period. 

Customers with a Morrisons Delivery Pass can then secure their preferred Christmas delivery slot between the 20th and 24th December with a minimum spend of just £25. This exclusive early access opportunity allows Delivery Pass customers the guarantee of a seamless, stress-free online shopping experience during the year's busiest season.

The Morrisons Delivery Pass provides shoppers with the flexibility to shop online as frequently as they like, without incurring any delivery charges on every order. Delivery passes can be purchased on the Morrisons website and customers can choose from two options:

The anytime (seven-day) pass

or the midweek (Tuesday-Thursday) pass

Subscriptions are available for one month (£5 midweek / £8 anytime), six months (£25 midweek / £45 anytime), or a full year (£40 midweek / £70 anytime) and by signing up  to a Delivery Pass, customers can not only secure their Christmas delivery slots but also unlock year-round convenience.

Customers without a Morrisons Delivery Pass will be able to book their Christmas slots from October 25th. 

Joseph Sutton, the Online & Convenience Director at Morrisons, said: "We're delighted to announce our Christmas delivery slots, providing our customers with an early opportunity to plan and prepare for the festive season. At Morrisons, we understand the importance of convenience during this special time of year and our Delivery Pass options ensure that shoppers have the flexibility to choose a plan that suits their needs.”

morrisons.com

Asda has a nice, crisp plan for your Christmas season eating!

Elevating an affordable night in with a luxury offering and taking snacking to a new level, Asda has put together the ultimate crisp and wine pairing guide - from Pigs in Blankets and Pinot to Salt & Vinegar Sticks and Vouvray Chenin Blanc.

Hand cooked for the perfect crunch; the Extra Special Sea Salt & Black Pepper Hand Cooked Crisps (£1.35) should be paired with Asda’s Extra Special Dao (£7.50). The earthy, pepper flavours in the crisps match well with the herbal and black fruit notes of the wine.

Onion Rings (£1) but not as you may know them, these crisps are best paired with Asda’s Extra Special Malbec (£7.75); its strawberry and black cherry flavours are elevated by the pickled tang of the crisps.

Salt & Vinegar Sticks (£1) are a classic, and the slight sweetness Extra Special Vouvray Chenin Blanc (£8.00) balances the salty and tangy flavours.

Like a bit of spice? The fizz and freshness of the Extra Special Prosecco Brut (£8.00) cuts through the sweet, spicy and salty flavours of the Extra Special Korean Gochujang Hand Cooked Crisps (£1.35), creating a taste sensation.

As it gets closer to Christmas, Asda’s limited edition seasonal crisps are the perfect snack to enjoy alongside a winter tipple.

Hand cooked and seasoned with a rich and smoky flavour, the Extra Special Pigs in Blankets Hand Cooked Crisps (£1.35) should be paired with Asda’s Extra Special Pinot Noir (£8.00), as the delicate plum notes of the wine balance out the pork flavour.

The zesty acidity and minerality of the Extra Special Rueda (£6.00) compliments beautifully the stuffing flavour in the Extra Special Turkey & Stuffing Hand Cooked Crisps (£1.35), which are seasoned to give a hearty and herby flavour.

With smoky cherry fruits and a hint of cedar, Asda’s Extra Special Plan De Dieu Côtes Du Rhône Villages (£.8.75) is perfect with meatiness of the Extra Special Beef in Red Wine Gravy Hand Cooked Crisps (£1.35).

Ideal for the Christmas party table, the Asda Turkey Curry Crisps (£1.10) are a mix of snack shapes and seasoned with a mild turkey curry flavour. The Extra Special South African Chardonnay (£7.25) is the one to enjoy these with, with the creamy mild spices of the curry flavours balancing out the pairing.

www.asda.com

Morrisons launches search for 3,500 extra Christmas colleagues

Morrisons is looking for 3,500 extra colleagues to work in its stores, food manufacturing sites and logistics operations nationally to help meet increased demand over the busy Christmas period.

The wide range of roles available offer plenty of flexibility and with no prior experience necessary, there should be something for everyone. 

Morrisons is seeking applicants who are friendly and willing to help and all new colleagues will benefit from a 15% staff discount card as well as a 10% discount card for a friend or family member. 

As Morrisons gears up for the festive rush, it's seeking out people to join the business in temporary jobs ranging from customer assistants to home delivery drivers and production and warehouse operatives.  In previous years, many of the colleagues who joined in temporary roles have gone on to find permanent positions within Morrisons.

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.”

To apply please visit: https://www.morrisons.jobs/christmas-at-morrisons

Incidentally, my parents both worked at Morisons in full time staff positions and were very happy working there.

"Boost Your Business for Free with That's Food and Drink & That's Christmas Blogs"

In the digital age, online presence is a crucial aspect of promoting your business. With countless marketing strategies available, it's often challenging to find cost-effective ways to reach a wider audience. 

However, two valuable resources stand out - That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs. These popular platforms offer businesses a unique opportunity to promote themselves for free. In this blog post, we'll explore how these blogs can help your business gain visibility, build credibility, and drive engagement without breaking the bank. (Yes, we are blowing our own trumpets. But if not us, who else?)

1. Showcase Your Products and Services

One of the most effective ways to promote your business is by showcasing your products or services. Whether you're in the food and beverage industry or have Christmas-themed offerings, That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs provide a platform to feature what you have to offer. These blogs often have a dedicated section for business features or product spotlights. By submitting your business or product, you can reach their large, engaged audience who are already interested in your niche.

2. Gain Credibility and Trust

Being featured on reputable blogs can significantly boost your business's credibility. Both That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs have earned their readers' trust by consistently providing high-quality content. When your business gets mentioned on these blogs, potential customers are more likely to trust your brand. This is an excellent way to build a positive reputation and influence the decision-making process of your target audience.

3. Reach a Targeted Audience

The key to successful promotion is reaching the right audience. That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs are specialized in their respective niches, which means they have a dedicated readership interested in food, beverages, and Christmas-related topics. This focused audience is more likely to engage with your content and convert into customers, making it a valuable opportunity for businesses in these sectors.

4. SEO Benefits

Getting featured on these blogs can also have indirect but powerful SEO benefits. When your business is mentioned in a well-established blog, it creates valuable backlinks to your website. These backlinks can improve your website's search engine ranking, making it easier for potential customers to find your business when searching online.

5. Social Media Exposure

Both blogs have active social media profiles and regularly share their featured content. When your business is featured, it's likely to be shared across their social media channels, giving you additional exposure to a broader audience. This can lead to increased brand recognition and engagement on social platforms.

6. Leverage the Christmas Season

For That's Christmas, the Christmas season is a perfect time to gain exposure. Businesses related to Christmas gifts, decorations, and festivities can leverage the blog's holiday-themed content to showcase their offerings and generate more sales during this peak period.

7. Networking Opportunities

Engaging with That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs also opens doors to networking opportunities. You may connect with other businesses in your industry, exchange ideas, and potentially collaborate on future projects.

In conclusion, That's Food and Drink and That's Christmas blogs offer businesses valuable exposure and promotion opportunities for free. By leveraging their established platforms, businesses can reach a targeted audience, gain credibility, improve SEO, and enjoy the benefits of social media exposure. If you want to increase your brand's visibility and grow your customer base without breaking the bank, consider reaching out to these blogs for potential features. It's a cost-effective way to enhance your marketing efforts and build a strong online presence for your business.

To learn how we can help you for free (There's a reason why we have Google Adsense on our blogs!) please send an email to us at afj_uk@yahoo.com.

A Delicious Twist: Vegan Alternatives to the Traditional Christmas Dinner

Christmas is a time of joy, love, and feasting with our loved ones. For many, this often includes a traditional Christmas dinner, complete with succulent roast meats and rich, creamy sides. But what if you or your guests follow a vegan lifestyle, or you simply want to try something new this Christmas season? 

Fear not! There's a world of scrumptious vegan alternatives waiting to delight your taste buds. In this blog post, we'll explore some delectable options for a plant-based Christmas feast that can easily rival, if not surpass, the traditional spread.

Roasted Stuffed Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is the perfect candidate for a vegan main course. Roast it to perfection, then fill it with a flavourful stuffing made from quinoa, nuts, cranberries, and herbs. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze and watch your guests' eyes light up at this hearty, visually stunning dish.

Portobello Mushroom Wellington

Mushrooms are a vegan's best friend when it comes to crafting a rich, meaty flavour. Try a Portobello mushroom Wellington as the centrepiece of your holiday meal. Wrap the savoury mushrooms in puff pastry, along with spinach, caramelized onions, and a touch of garlic. Bake until golden brown, and voila – you have an impressive, satisfying entrée.

Lentil and Nut Roast

A lentil and nut roast is a classic vegan choice for Christmas dinner. Packed with protein, this dish combines lentils, nuts, breadcrumbs, and an array of seasonings. The result is a mouth-watering roast that can easily replace meat. Serve it with a generous helping of vegan gravy and all the traditional trimmings.

Vegan Nut Roast

Alternatively, consider a vegan nut roast. This delightful dish features a mixture of chopped nuts, seeds, and vegetables, held together with flax or chia seeds. The nut roast can be personalised with various herbs and spices, creating a festive, flavourful centrepiece for your Christmas dinner table.

Stuffed Peppers

For a light yet satisfying main course, stuffed peppers are an excellent option. Fill colourful bell peppers with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and a blend of spices. Roast until tender, and serve with a zesty tomato sauce. The vibrant presentation adds a splash of Christmas cheer to your meal.

Vegan Gravy

No Christmas dinner is complete without a tasty and hearty gravy. Swap the traditional meat-based gravy for a rich, flavoursome vegan version. You can make a delicious gravy using ingredients like vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, mushrooms, and various seasonings. Pour it generously over your vegan roast for a burst of flavour.

Creamy Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a Christmas dinner essential. To create a vegan-friendly version, simply replace butter and cream with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter and almond or soy milk. Add roasted garlic for a flavourful twist, and you'll have creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes that will please everyone at the table.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a perfect side dish for any holiday meal. Toss them with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of maple syrup, then roast until crispy and caramelised. Their unique, robust flavour is a delightful addition to your vegan Christmas feast. (As a fan of Brussel sprouts, I approve of this idea!)

Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce is a Christmas dinner classic that's already vegan! Homemade cranberry sauce, sweetened with sugar or maple syrup, is a vibrant, tangy condiment that pairs wonderfully with your main dishes.

Vegan Desserts

For a sweet ending to your vegan Christmas dinner, indulge in vegan desserts like pumpkin pie with coconut whipped cream, vegan chocolate yule log, or gingerbread cookies. These treats are just as decadent and delicious as their non-vegan counterparts.

This Christmas, embrace the spirit of inclusivity and try something new by exploring these delectable vegan alternatives to the traditional Christmas dinner. From savoury main courses to mouth-watering sides and scrumptious desserts, there are plenty of options to satisfy the palate and share a compassionate, eco-friendly meal with your loved ones. Make this Christmas season one to remember with a vegan feast that celebrates delicious food and the spirit of togetherness.

Supermarkets such as Asda, Morrisons, Sainsburys, Aldi, Lidl, Waitrose, the Co-Op, etc are offering an increasing range of vegetarian and vegan food so are well worth checking out.

(Image courtesy of Jana from Pixabay)

Seven Exciting and New Christmas Cocktails to Brighten Your Christmas Season

As the Christmas season rushes toward us, it's high time to get into the festive spirit with some creative and delicious Christmas cocktails. While classics like mulled wine are always comforting, why not add a dash of excitement to your holiday gatherings with some new and innovative Christmas cocktail recipes? 

In this blog post, we'll explore seven exciting and fresh Christmas cocktails that are sure to dazzle your taste buds and impress your guests.

Christmas Mule

The Moscow Mule gets a festive makeover with the Christmas Mule. Swap the traditional copper mug for a red or green one, and mix vodka, cranberry juice, ginger beer, and a squeeze of lime. Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a truly holiday-inspired cocktail.

Candy Cane Martini

Nothing screams Christmas more than candy canes. This Candy Cane Martini is a delightful blend of vanilla vodka, white crème de menthe, and peppermint schnapps. Crushed candy canes rimmed on the glass give it that classic Christmas look and an extra burst of peppermint flavour.

Winter Wonderland Punch

Perfect for large gatherings, the Winter Wonderland Punch is a delightful combination of white rum, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and a splash of blue curaçao. The result is a beautiful, icy-blue drink that's reminiscent of a snowy Christmas day. Serve it in a punch bowl with floating star-shaped ice cubes.

Spiced Pear Bellini

If you prefer a touch of elegance at your Christmas brunch, the Spiced Pear Bellini is the way to go. Combine pear nectar, a pinch of cinnamon, and a splash of Prosecco for a bubbly and aromatic drink. Garnish with a slice of fresh pear for an extra touch of sophistication.

Cranberry Pomegranate Sangria

Sangria isn't just for summer! The Cranberry Pomegranate Sangria is a winter twist on the classic Spanish beverage. Mix red wine, cranberry juice, pomegranate seeds, and a hint of cinnamon. Let the flavours meld together in the fridge, and serve it over ice for a refreshing, fruity Christmas drink.

Hot Buttered Rum

Warm up your holiday gatherings with a comforting and classic Hot Buttered Rum. Blend dark rum with a spiced, buttery batter made from brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Add hot water, stir, and top with a dollop of whipped cream and a cinnamon stick.

Gingerbread Old Fashioned

Give the Old Fashioned cocktail a gingerbread twist. Muddle sugar, Angostura bitters, and a slice of orange in a glass. Add bourbon, a splash of ginger liqueur, and a dash of cinnamon. The result is a warming, spicy, and nostalgic drink that embodies the essence of the holidays.

This Christmas season, don't limit yourself to the same old holiday drinks. Step out of your comfort zone and explore these exciting and new Christmas cocktails that will make your celebrations even more joyful. Whether you're hosting a festive party or looking for a cosy drink by the fireplace, these creative cocktails are sure to delight your taste buds and create lasting memories with family and friends. Cheers to a joyful and spirited holiday season!

That's Christmas would like to point out that by using alcohol free versions of famous spirt drinks you can create tasty alcohol free versions of these seven utterly delicious cocktails for designated drivers or for those who do not consume alcohol. 

(Image courtesy of Михаил Прокопенко from Pixabay)