Next (NXT) Sees Job Applicant Surge Amid Youth Unemployment Crisis

Lord Wolfson, CEO of Next (NXT), stated that the number of applicants per job for shop positions has risen from 10 to 19 over the past two years, indicating a crisis in youth unemployment. The unemployment rate for 16 to 24-year-olds is currently 16.2%, more than three times the overall rate of 5%. Wolfson mentioned that a ban on zero-hours contracts and rising National Insurance costs could hinder job creation. Additionally, Next has reported a £70 million annual increase in its wage bill attributed to government policies while noting a thriving online business.