Sainsbury's has launched a new graduate program focused on artificial intelligence and digital skills. The two-year "FutureMaker" scheme will recruit nearly 50 graduates for roles at the retailer's store support centre, with applications opening January 9.
The launch comes as UK graduates face what job search site Indeed described earlier this year as the toughest job market in years. Advertised graduate roles dropped 33% compared to the previous year, hitting a seven-year low.
Sainsbury's developed the program after extensive research into future business needs. Graduates will develop skills in AI, data analytics, change management, and business decision-making. The training aims to prepare them for roles across buying, data science, supply chain, and product innovation.
Job cuts alongside AI investment
The retailer has cut 4,500 jobs over the past two years while simultaneously increasing investment in automation and AI. It eliminated 1,500 positions in February 2024 and another 3,000 in January 2025 as part of a plan to simplify operations and reduce costs by £1 billion.
A Sainsbury's spokesperson said: «As a proud people-first business, our colleagues are at the heart of everything we do. We're committed to investing in early careers and have spent time identifying the skills our future leaders will need to help us build a sustainable retail talent pipeline.»
Microsoft partnership separate
Sainsbury's announced a partnership with Microsoft in 2024 to use AI to enhance customer and colleague experiences. The collaboration included upskilling programs for existing employees.
However, the retailer stressed that the new FutureMaker program is not specifically connected to the Microsoft partnership. Clodagh Moriarty, Sainsbury's chief retail and technology officer, said of the Microsoft deal: «It's one of the key ways we're investing in transforming our capabilities over the next three years, enabling us to take another big leap forward in efficiency and productivity.»
The program aims to demystify AI and machine learning for graduates, improving their digital confidence and enabling more responsible use of AI tools.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
