Pret a Manger is rewarding employees with pay increases for the third time in just 12 months.
From 1 April, staff – including baristas and shop managers – will be able to earn more than £12 per hour – equating to a 19% rise in the year.
The latest increase means most employees will earn more than the £10.42 national living wage rate that will be introduced in April and follows two pay rises introduced in April and December 2022.
In addition to boosting pay packets, Pret has also been considering ways to enhance its employee benefits offering to help staff with the cost of living.
The coffee and sandwich chain has launched a new discounts portal which gives staff access to cheaper essential items such as fresh food from supermarkets and other outlets. The portal complements Pret’s existing benefits package, which includes the provision of free food and drink, such as breakfast and lunch, while at work and a 50% discount at other times.
Guy Meakin, interim managing director at Pret A Manger UK and Ireland, said: “We’re proud to be making another significant investment in our people’s success and wellbeing. Whether it’s paying above the National Minimum Wage, providing career development opportunities, or leading the industry on Barista pay we’re committed to making Pret a rewarding and supportive place to work for all our teams and paying the best we can afford to.
“Our people work incredibly hard to make Pret such a well-loved place on the high street, and we wanted to thank them for their continued energy and commitment. As the cost of living continues to rise, we hope this latest increase in pay, and our expanded benefits package, goes some way in providing further support for our hardworking teams.”
All shop staff will be eligible for the latest pay rise, regardless of age, although but there may be some differences depending on workers’ roles, experience, and location.
Pret has also recognised the hard work of its people, promoting almost 30% of shop staff in the past 12 months.