The APC, the UK’s largest independent delivery network, is looking to hire over 100 new members of staff for its upcoming peak period. (2)

Delivery network APC is looking to hire over 100 new members of staff for its upcoming peak period as demand for delivery services continues to rise during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The roles – all of which are permanent - vary from drivers and warehouse operatives, to customer services staff and IT.

The news follows official figures announced by the Office for National Statistics yesterday (11 August), which highlight that UK employment fell by the largest amount in over a decade between April and June.

This recruitment drive is a direct result of APC’s continued year-on-year growth, the firm said, with parcel and consignment volumes at an all-time high.

It added that the surge in online shopping looks set to continue as the peak period, including Black Friday and Christmas, approaches.

APC chief executive Jonathan Smith said: “The last five months have seen unprecedented demand for our delivery services, as the whole team works tirelessly to ensure that packages are delivered across the country. This increased demand and continued SME customer growth has led to a need for an even larger workforce as we approach peak season and continue to grow as a business.

“We are at a watershed moment in the industry with many of these new consumer shopping habits likely here to stay – in turn creating longer-term opportunities within APC and the logistics sector. We are committed not only to providing job opportunities to people in the local area, but also to give those that may not have previously considered a role in logistics, with the ability to build a career in an industry that is thriving.”

All successful applicants receive training from APC’s dedicated Training Academy, which provides an in-depth induction training programme. New starters are also supported through the transition from this learning environment to warehouse floor.

The company is also strongly committed to providing young people with long-term employment opportunities, having recently announced its plans to get behind the government’s Kickstart Scheme.

The APC has already received high levels of interest for other roles, with applications for vacancies attracting nearly three times as many applicants per vacancy than before Covid-19.