UK Retailers Plan to Create 100,000 Jobs for Young Unemployed People by 2029

British retailers have announced plans to create 100,000 jobs for young people who are currently out of employment or education by the time of the next national election, expected in 2029.

The initiative is part of a government effort to address rising youth unemployment in Britain. The British Retail Consortium and the Department for Work and Pensions are also introducing a voluntary work placement programme aimed at people aged 18 to 24.

The programme will provide participants receiving unemployment benefits with two- to four-week work placements designed to give them practical experience and improve their chances of securing permanent retail employment.

Around 11,000 placements will initially be available. Companies participating include Aldi, Amazon, Asda, JD Sports, John Lewis Partnership, Marks & Spencer, Morrisons, Primark and Tesco.

Britain has just under 1 million people aged 16 to 24 who are not in education, employment or training. Earlier this year, that figure reached its highest level since 2013.

Retailers and their suppliers account for nearly a quarter of youth employment in Britain. Some employer organisations have previously linked higher youth unemployment to increases in the minimum wage and employer social security contributions.