Employee Benefits poll: Almost three-quarters (73%) of employers revealed that they are giving their staff a pay rise for 2026.
According to a survey of Employee Benefits readers, 8.1% of respondents said they are not giving their staff a pay rise for 2026. A total of 18.9%, however, said they were unsure if they would or not.
Throughout December 2025, Employee Benefits reported that various employers had awarded their staff a pay increase.
Around 300 Arriva bus workers in Leicester, Hinckley and Coalville received an improved pay offer, which will see their wages rise by 6.5%.
In addition, KeolisAmey Metrolink raised Manchester-based drivers’ starting pay from £26,420 to £33,026 as of 1 January, increasing to £33,687 to attract new staff. Salaries also increased for drivers with longer service to address retention issues. As a result, drivers with two years’ service will receive £34,500 as of this month, an increase on their current salary of £31,863.
Sharon Graham, general secretary at Unite, said: “This is an excellent win for our members at Metrolink, who stood together until their employer listened and came up with meaningful changes. Their action has also led to vastly improved pay for many workers and they should be proud of their achievement.”
A spokesperson for Arriva Midlands added: “We’re pleased to have come to an agreement with Unite which means industrial action will not take place.”
