Britain's Boots to recruit 10,000 workers for Christmas period

LONDON (Reuters) - British health and beauty retailer Boots said on Monday it planned to recruit more than 10,000 temporary workers, as competition for staff for the Christmas trading period heats up.

Boots, part of U.S. listed Walgreens Boots Alliance, said the jobs would be a combination of in-store roles across Britain and jobs at distribution centres in central England.

Britain's labour market is tight. Official data this month showed the rate of unemployment at its lowest since 1974 at 3.5%. A raft of companies have recently announced pay rises.

The British arm of German discounter Aldi said this month it aimed to recruit 3,000 workers before the festive period. John Lewis said in August it would recruit 10,000 Christmas staff for its department stores, Waitrose supermarkets and online operations.

As well as higher pay, retailers are offering other perks to attract and retain staff.

Boots is offering staff 45% off own brand products, while John Lewis is offering free meals.

(Reporting by James Davey; Editing by Edmund Blair)