John Lewis to hire more shop floor staff

John Lewis executive director, Peter Ruis, has reportedly made plans to increase the shop floor staff count across the retail estate, The Sunday Times has revealed.

It is understood that Ruis is also currently renegotiating contracts with fashion brands, which will see them pay the department store a lower rate of commission. 

This move will be in exchange for hiring more employees in John Lewis’ concessions, as the retailer aims to mirror the sales culture of its many beauty halls. 

Ruis, who was named executive director of the department store in January this year, is reportedly of the opinion that staff levels have been scaled back too much across the shop floor. 

In addition, the retailer’s research has shown that more staff could increase sales in concessions, to the benefit of both the group and its suppliers. 

The Sunday Times has reported that fashion brands have enthusiastically backed John Lewis’ shop floor hiring plans. 

However, the leaders of multiple suppliers were sceptical, telling the outlet their commission rates would need to drop in order for them to support such a plan.  

John Lewis has been approached for comment.