B&Q has now introduced a change across all its UK stores. The major DIY retailer had raised its UK minimum hourly rate to £13.10, with employees in London receiving pay increases up to £14.44 per hour. The change represents an annual boost of more than £745.29 for full-time employees.
The home improvement giant highlighted the essential role that shopfloor teams play in driving customer experience and market growth, with the move benefiting 15,000 staff members.
While the Government’s legal minimum wage varies by age, B&Q operates as a multigenerational employer. The company maintains a policy of equal pay for equal work, meaning all colleagues aged 18 and over receive the same minimum hourly rate.
The pay also includes apprentices, who are paid the same as other team members in equivalent roles. B&Q offers 40 different apprenticeship paths, with over 2,500 colleagues having either completed or are currently working towards a qualification.
Graham Bell, CEO of B&Q, said: “We’re delighted to further recognise the exceptional value, commitment, and performance delivered by our colleagues every day.
“We pride ourselves on having one of the UK retail sector’s most competitive pay positions.
“We believe rewarding our colleagues fairly is a critical part of delivering growth for our business and continually improving the experience we provide for our customers.”
Beyond the base rate, employees are eligible for enhanced family leave, an award-winning pension plan, and wellbeing support through the Retail Trust.
Staff also receive shopping discounts, including 20% off at B&Q, which increases to 30% for sustainable and energy-saving product ranges