Marks and Spencer (M&S) has said that it is offering new HGV drivers a sign-on bonus.

The move comes as the retail industry continues to grapple with a worsening driver shortage.

According to the Road Haulage Association (RHA), there is currently a shortage of around 100,000 HGV drivers across the UK.

The multinational retailer said that drivers joining Gist from August can earn up to £5000 in incentives through a £2,000 sign-on bonus and up to three additional retention payments.

Alongside discounts and a “generous pension,” M&S added that warehouse operatives taking part in Gist’s Warehouse to Wheels scheme would have access to free training.

M&S is not the only retailer aiming to attract new drivers with incentives.

On Monday it was reported that Aldi had raised wages for its lorry drivers, while last week Tesco offered a £1000 signing bonus for new drivers who sign up before 30 September.

Morrisons also announced a scheme which will allow existing employees to retrain as lorry drivers.

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