Health and wellbeing retailer Holland and Barrett has announced that it will increase its hourly pay for store employees by 9%, almost 5% above the new national living wage.
The retailer has more than 1,000 stores across 19 countries worldwide, with 5,000 employees in the UK.
As of 1 April, nationwide employees will see their pay rise from £11 per hour to £12, while London-based staff will receive an increase from £11.95 to £13.00, another almost 9% increase. This rise means that pay for store-based employees has increased by 25% over the past two years.
Holland and Barrett decided to implement the pay rise following growth of the business over the past year and to put it in a strong position among other retailers on the high street, as it looks to attract new staff and retain its talented and highly trained employees.
Anthony Houghton, chief executive officer of Holland and Barrett UK and Ireland, said: “We’re known for our amazing, knowledgeable employees, who help our customers with their wellness needs. We are delighted to once again be offering a substantial pay increase, alongside our strong benefits plan. We have exciting plans for the business in the year ahead, and look forward to continuing to provide health and wellness services to customers nationwide for another 150 years.”
Other benefits available for store workers include a 25% staff discount and free online delivery, free wellbeing diagnostic tests, a £50 product allowance, flexible holiday allowance, exclusive discounts and wellbeing tools, free folic acid for parents-to-be and an employee assistance programme. All store employees also receive nationally recognised health and wellbeing qualifications during their time in their role and have the opportunity for continuing development through the employer’s apprenticeship schemes.