John Lewis plans to create new jobs - graduate jobs

John Lewis is planning to create new jobs, including opportunities for graduates, through the launch of a number of new-style stores.

The retail giant said the outlets will be opened next year, offering thousands of new positions. The firm will create 300 jobs with the launch of the first store in Exeter in 2012.

In terms of size, the new sites will be larger compared with the retailer's "at home" shops but smaller than its major department stores.

The company has already identified at least 10 areas for the new stores in the UK.

Managing director Andy Street said: "Starting early next year with the recruitment of 300 staff for the new Exeter branch, similar numbers will be recruited at each of the 10 identified locations going forward resulting in around 3,000 jobs being created through the development of our new, flexible format."

Copyright Press Association 2011