Supermarket looks to take on workers in five-year plan

Bosses say they want to open more stores in the next five years, including 100 supermarkets and 150 forecourt shops.

Doug McMillon, president and chief executive of Asda's US parent company Walmart, said: “A seismic shift in the structure of the retail market is underway, not just in the UK, but right across the world.

“Asda recognised the change in its market and took early action to develop and implement a strategy that will see it grow, creating more new jobs and bringing real value to more UK customers.”

Last month, Asda revealed plans to cut about 200 posts, but said any changes would not affect shop floor staff.

The company is rolling out a five-year plan to tackle increasing competition from discount chains.