'Great resignation' | John Lewis chief urges retirees 'get back to work for the sake of the economy'

Over-50s leading a “great resignation” have shrunk the UK labour market and driven up inflation, the boss of John Lewis has said.

But Chairwoman Dame Sharon White says that these early retirees could be enticed back into the workplace with flexible working options, in a bid to plug the huge talent crisis facing the country.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Dame Sharon discussed the exodus that has seen around a million people leave the working population since the pandemic began, contributing to an increase in inflation and wage growth.

Fewer employees in work means businesses are facing pressure to raise salaries, which in turn is pushing up prices. It is also having major long-term implications for businesses struggling to fill jobs, Dame Sharon added.