Sainsbury's and Argos have confirmed a new £13 pay rule in stores this Christmas as part of a nationwide recruitment drive. Together, the retailers are launching 17,500 seasonal jobs across the UK to help out during the busy festive period.
The seasonal staff will support existing teams across Sainsbury's supermarkets, convenience stores, warehouses, Argos stores and online fulfilment operations, helping to keep shelves stocked, support deliveries and to pick online orders.
Pay rates vary by role
The pay rates vary by role and location to reflect the different responsibilities involved, but some roles pay up to £16.04 per hour. This highest pay rate is for Sainsbury's Driver jobs, with hourly rates ranging from £14.73 to £16.04 per hour, depending on location.
Argos driver jobs pay is slightly lower with hourly rates starting at £14.23 and going up to £15.53 per hour, while the pay for in-store jobs ranges from £13.23 to £14.54 per hour.
Above National Living Wage
As such, all seasonal staff will get paid an hourly rate of at least £13.23, which is above the current National Living Wage at £12.71. Sainsbury's said it is committed to fair and competitive pay and has increased its hourly pay by 42% over the past five years.
From March 2026, its base hourly rate is £13.23 nationally and £14.54 in London, with higher rates for driving roles. Sainsbury's also offers staff free food during shifts and an uncapped colleague discount of 10% at Sainsbury's and Argos, rising to 15% every Friday and Saturday at Sainsbury's.
Seasonal contracts and applications
Tracey Clements, Chief Retail, Logistics and Supply Chain Officer at Sainsbury's, said: “Christmas is always a special time for our customers and colleagues and our seasonal team members help make it happen.”
“We look forward to welcoming thousands of new colleagues who will help us deliver great-tasting festive food, brilliant service and fantastic value across our stores, fulfilment centres and delivery operations.”
“Whether someone is joining us for the first time or returning for another Christmas, they’ll play an important role in helping customers celebrate.”
Seasonal colleagues will be employed on fixed-term contracts ranging from four to 12 weeks. Sainsbury's said any permanent opportunities will be based on the needs of each local store and seasonal staff are welcome to apply for suitable roles.
You can apply for a role online by visiting Sainsburys Christmas Job Opportunities or speak to your local store for more information.
