Head office staff have already requested leave

Its 150,000 workers will be able to take one or two weeks off in the month starting on 9 June.

Requests will be dealt with on a first come, first served basis depending on staffing needs at individual outlets.

Staff working during the tournament will be able to seek extended breaks, shift swaps and occasional days off.

"With World Cup fever just around the corner, we wanted to give employees a chance to go on a German jolly and enjoy what we all hope will be a tournament to remember," said the chain's people director David Smith.

Asda spokeswoman Jennifer England said they cannot at this stage estimate the number of people who would take up the offer.

"A number of head office staff have already put in requests," she said.

The offer is part of the chain's flexible working package which includes "IVF leave" for workers undergoing fertility treatment and "Benidorm leave" for older staff seeking Spanish sunshine.