Wagamamas, Marriott & Karen Millen amongst those named & shamed for underpaying minimum wage workers

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Wagamamas, Marriott and Karen Millen are amongst the companies being named and shamed for underpaying minimum wage workers.

The government has named and shamed nearly 180 employers for underpaying more than 9,000 minimum wage workers by £1.1 million.

As well as recovering backpay for 9,200 workers, the government also fined employers a total of £1.3 million in penalties for breaking national minimum wage laws.

The most prolific offending sectors in this round were retailers, hospitality businesses and hairdressers.

It comes ahead of the next rate rise on 1 April, when the National Living Wage will go up from £7.50 to £7.83 per hour. Apprentices under the age of 19 and those in the first year of their apprenticeship will benefit from a record 5.7 per cent rise.

Speaking about the announcement, Business Minister Andrew Griffiths said, “The world of work is changing and we have set out our plans to give millions of workers enhanced rights to ensure everyone is paid and treated fairly in the workplace.”

“There are no excuses for short-changing workers.”

“This is an absolute red line for this government and employers who cross it will get caught – not only are they forced to pay back every penny but they are also fined up to 200 per cent of wages owed.”

“Today’s naming round serves as a sharp reminder to employers to get their house in order ahead of minimum wage rate rises on 1 April.”

Bryan Sanderson, Chairman of the Low Pay Commission (LPC) said, “As the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage rates rise on 1 April, it is vital that workers understand their rights, and employers their obligations.”

“The Low Pay Commission is pleased to see the government maintaining the momentum of its minimum wage enforcement.”

You can find the full list of organisations here.

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