Central Co-op raises hourly pay amid further benefits for employees

Central Co-op has announced significant investments in its employees by raising minimum pay to £12 an hour, alongside paid breaks and a suite of additional benefits aimed at enhancing workers well-being and flexibility. The pay increase, effective from 1 April, equates to an additional £2,535 per annum for a full-time customer service assistant and is also in addition to paid breaks. As well as the pay increase, Central Co-op provides a range of added benefits for its workers, including annual health checks and virtual GP, free counselling sessions and access to a nutritionist. Last year Central Co-op also launched a flexible working trial called Workflex – an initiative that allows workers to choose between a four-day week, a nine-day fortnight, or a combination of both, promoting a better work-life balance and prioritising employee well-being. In 2023 Central Co-op also launched policies on pregnancy loss, fertility treatment, menopause and trans awareness to ensure all employees feel included and supported when they need it most. Furthermore, Central Co-op is also looking into the introduction of a Wagestream trial for workers later this year, offering the flexibility to choose how and when they get paid and demonstrating Central Co-op’s ongoing commitment to innovation and financial well-being. Sarah Dickins, chief member, customer and people officer at Central Co-op, said: “Our purpose is to create a sustainable Society for all. At Central Co-op, we believe that our colleagues are our greatest asset, and we are thrilled to be investing into their overall package again this year, increasing base pay by over 24% over the last 2 years. “Our colleagues are our difference makers and we're continuously listening to them to help us invest in the areas that matter. We’re always looking to enhance our colleague experience across career development, benefits, wellbeing and flexibility too. A huge thank you to all 7,500 of our colleagues for everything they do.” Jayne Allport, national officer at Usdaw (Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers), said: “At Usdaw, we are thrilled that we were able to work with Central Co-op on its commitment to fair compensation and colleague well-being through a pay increase to £12 per hour, and strongly support the many other additional benefits Central Co-op provides. These initiatives exemplify the co-operative spirit and dedication to supporting its workforce.”