Argos will employ 12,000 extra staff in the UK and Ireland in the run-up to Christmas.

The temporary workers will assist the multichannel retailer’s existing 25,000 store staff.

Argos managing director John Walden said: “Christmas is our busiest period of the year so we always need extra help in our stores to ensure we can deliver great service to the millions of customers who shop with us at this time.”

The roles are for up to three months with opportunities to extend to four months and potentially a permanent employment contract if vacancies become available.

As part of its recruitment drive, Argos is continuing its partnership with TUI UK, parent company of Thomson and First Choice. For the second year running, the retailer is inviting summer seasonal workers with the travel company to apply for roles at Argos for the winter season.