Home Depot targets workers over 50
Move to add skilled employees by DIY retailer
February 8 2004
Home Depot is looking to increase the number of workers it employs aged 50 and over.
The US based-DIY giant has launched a joint initiative with AARP, a US organisation for people over 50, which has more than 35m members. AARP will find and train workers and help them apply for jobs, while Home Depot will try offer flexible opportunities.
The aim is to attract, motivate and retain older workers as part- and full-time associates in new and existing Home Depot stores. The retailer plans to open an additional 175 stores this year and will hire around 35,000 new associates in 2004.
Bob Nardelli, chairman, of Home Depot, said: “This hiring partnership with AARP is a great opportunity for Home Depot to attract qualified, knowledgeable and skilled individuals to work as associates in our stores.
“AARP has a broad national reach with the mature workforce making it a powerful resource and an ideal organization for Home Depot to partner with for a national hiring initiative. At Home Depot, we believe knowledge, experience, and passion never retire.”
Bill Novelli, CEO of AARP, said: “This partnership will provide Home Depot with access to a high performing, diverse contingent of potential associates that demonstrate a strong work ethic, maturity and leadership.”
Home Depot is looking for skilled associates including plumbers, electricians, landscapers, design, sales, and customer service representatives.
The move creates another parallel between Home Depot and UK counterpart B&Q. The kingfisher-owned chain, Europes’ biggest DIY retailer, has operated a successful policy of recruiting older workers for some years.
