The new facility is expected to begin operating early next year

Lidl has opened recruitment for hundreds of warehouse jobs at its new £150m distribution centre in Leeds.

The supermarket giant is looking to fill full and part-time warehouse operative positions at its new facility in Gildersome, with successful applicants potentially starting work before Christmas.

The recruitment drive marks the latest stage of Lidl's investment in the West Yorkshire site, which is expected to begin operating early next year.

Warehouse operative roles start at £13.80 an hour, rising to £14.45 with length of service.

Lidl has opened recruitment for its new warehouse, which is set to open next year | Lidl

placeholder image — Lidl has opened recruitment for its new warehouse, which is set to open next year | Lidl

No formal qualifications are required for the positions, with Lidl saying it is looking for people who are willing to get involved and work as part of a team.

New recruits will also receive a 10% staff discount in Lidl stores from their first day.

The supermarket said its benefits package also includes 28 weeks of full pay for colleagues taking maternity or adoption leave. Paternity leave was doubled earlier this year, while employees with more than five years' service can receive up to eight weeks of full pay.

Andy Cole, regional director at Lidl GB, said the new warehouse represented an "incredible journey" for the business.

He said: "We're embarking on an incredible journey with our new Leeds warehouse, a milestone moment for our growth in the region.

"To make this a success, we need a fantastic team. I urge anyone looking to be a part of our founding team to apply now and join Team Lidl."

The warehouse is being built on Loverose Way, around five minutes from Junction 27 of the M62, with Lidl saying its location has been designed with local commuters in mind.

Once operational, the new facility will increase Lidl's distribution capacity in the north of England and support the supermarket's growing network of stores.

The company said it would also strengthen local supply chains and help ensure more households can access its products.

People interested in applying for the warehouse roles can find vacancies through careers.lidl.co.uk.