Amazon, the world's largest e-commerce company, announced on Friday that it will add 10,000 jobs in Britain, a day after launching a recruitment drive in the United States as online shopping increases amid the epidemic.

Amazon stated in a statement that the growth, which amounts to more than one-fifth of its existing UK employment, will bring the company's total headcount in the country to 55,000 towards the end of the year.

The revelation comes only one day after Amazon announced intentions to add 75,000 jobs in the United States and Canada, and comes as customers around the world continue to purchase massively online in the face of the Covid-19 outbreak.

“We're generating thousands of outstanding jobs throughout the UK in a variety of professions with fantastic pay and benefits,” said Amazon's UK Country Manager John Boumphrey in a report.

In addition, the corporation will establish a £10 million ($14 million, 12-million-euro) initiative over the next three years to enable up to 5,000 employees to obtain new skills.

As part of the job growth, Amazon will establish a parcel center and four new fulfillment centers in Britain.

This will also enhance its network of delivery stations and generate new positions in computers, engineering, finance, health and safety, human resources, and order fulfillment.

The British government applauded the news.

“Amazon's announcement is excellent news and a big vote of confidence in the British economy... with a staggering 10,000 new long-term jobs,” said Kwasi Kwarteng, Business Secretary.

“As we recover from the epidemic, this is an excellent investment in our retail sector.

“Over the last year, Amazon's crew has gone above and beyond to guarantee that consumers have had secure access to items throughout this difficult time.”