More than 600 people have applied for just 80 positions at the revamped Waitrose in Bayswater.

The retailer says it has received “an overwhelming” 623 applications for the new roles, which include full and part-time positions across all departments, in just a fortnight.

It means there were just under eight applications for every job available.

The interview process is now under way with job offers expected to be made by the end of July.

During the recruitment process, Waitrose say it will work closely with the local Jobcentre Plus team to offer opportunities to unemployed people in the community.

Waitrose Bayswater is currently being extended and refurbished as part of the multi-million pound makeover of the Colonnades.

It will offer the retailer’s latest concepts and services, including a focus on hospitality with new eat-in areas where shoppers will be able to meet, sit down and enjoy different foods.

Branch manager Peter Ibbotson said: “We’ve been in Bayswater for seven years and have a great relationship with the local community, so are pleased to be able to bring more jobs to the area.”

All successful applicants will become members of the John Lewis Partnership, entitling them to exclusive benefits, including leisure and learning subsidies, and a share in profits in the form of an annual bonus.”

The branch is expected to open in the autumn.