Chain plans 50,000 jobs by 2020 - graduate jobs

Sainsbury's plans to create 50,000 jobs by 2020, an initiative which should delight UK graduates looking to start their careers.

The plan is part of a wider £1 billion sustainability scheme launched by the superstore giant which also aims to double the amount of British food it sells and raise its number of fairly traded products.

The company said the programme sets out 20 targets covering products, community work and staff.

Among the moves planned are using carbon-saving technologies to lower energy use in superstores, doubling the amount of British food sold from £4 billion a year, raising sales of fairly traded products to £1 billion and ensuring meat, poultry, eggs and dairy goods suppliers follow welfare standards.

Sainsbury's said 20,000 of its workers will have gained 20 years of service by 2020 and at least half of staff will have gained externally accredited training.

Copyright Press Association 2011