We’d all like to make a bit of extra cash at Christmas. December is an expensive month of presents, food, and nights out, which is why it’s also when many of us start a side hustle. One survey suggests that 41% of Brits launched a side gig last holiday season.
Retail could be the best route this year. Marks & Spencer has announced it will be recruiting over 11,000 new members of staff to work in its stores over the Christmas period. Vacancies are available at every store across the UK, and recruitment begins this Wednesday.
Many of the roles will also include flexible working, and can fit around another full-time or part-time job. Successful applicants should line up their stockings for a November start date.
In this guide, we’ll explain what Christmas jobs are available at M&S this year and how much you can expect to earn, so you can start stockpiling mince pies for the big day.
What jobs are available?
M&S has not yet released a list of open job roles on its website. But it has said it will be recruiting shop floor assistants to work the tills, stock shelves, and advise customers.
Each customer assistant position comes with flexible working opportunities, with staff able to choose to work part-time, a 4-day compressed week, or as a job share.
Monetising an existing skill, such as customer service or retail experience, is a good place to start when searching for a side gig. Similarly, for those with a driving licence who are searching for a job role this December, Marks and Spencer is also hiring delivery drivers.
Like Uber driving, the UK’s most popular side hustle last year, applicants with a driving licence can apply to work as a courier for M&S’ Christmas Food to Order service.
Interested hustlers are encouraged to sign up to a ‘seasonal role’ online, and you will be contacted by M&S to discuss which area of the business you’d like to work in.
How much will I earn?
58% of aspiring side hustlers last year told GoDaddy they expect to generate up to £500 with their Christmas venture. Half a grand is a nice present to put under the tree, and part-time workers will be able to make a similar amount of money at Marks and Spencer.
The retailer announced a major £89m investment in staff wages at the beginning of last month, bringing its pay in line with the Real Living Wage.
That means staff will earn a minimum wage of £12 per hour, and could make around £480 by working just five hours a week at M&S between November and December. In London, where customer assistants earn £13.05 an hour, they would make roughly £522.
Plus, M&S’ employee benefits package means you’ll also get 20% off in-store by working at the shop, earning you a sizable chunk off your Christmas shopping this year.
Why a job can be just for Christmas
UK retailers are gearing up for the busiest shopping season of the year, and with it comes a surge in temporary job opportunities. Many high-street stores, including major chains like Marks & Spencer, are seeking additional staff to cope with the increased demand.
For those looking for flexible work, the festive period offers an ideal opportunity. Retail roles often come with adaptable schedules, making them suitable for full-time workers.
But retail isn’t your only route to some quick cash this Christmas. For the crafty, Christmas markets provide a platform to showcase handmade goods. For those who prefer a more cash-in-hand approach, pet sitting and house sitting, can be surprisingly lucrative options.
December also presents a unique chance for aspiring entrepreneurs to test their ideas. The lull before and after Christmas is a great opportunity to finally wrap up your business plan.
Read our guide to the best cheap business ideas, for over 100 lucrative business ventures that you can use to sleigh your side hustle this December.
