One company has made the decision to implement an early pay raise for its employees, a move that has been well-received by the staff members who believe the extra money will be beneficial as the holiday season approaches.
The Real Living Wage, which is a voluntary minimum wage for individuals above 18 years of age working for employers affiliated with the Living Wage Foundation, is designed to cover essential expenses such as food, clothing, and household bills.
Effective immediately, the hourly rate will increase by 85p to £13.45 per hour, representing a 6.7% rise, and by 95p to £14.80 per hour in London, which is a 6.9% increase. These rates surpass the legal minimum wage requirements.
The Real Living Wage is applicable to all employees aged 18 and above working for a Real Living Wage employer, of which there are now more than 16,000.
Although employers have until May 2026 to implement the higher rates, Eland Cables, a supplier of electrical cables for major infrastructure projects, has chosen to introduce the pay raise ahead of schedule, benefiting employees like Ben, a 34-year-old father of two from Doncaster.
Expressing his appreciation, Ben stated, “I think it’s fantastic. Everyone deserves fair compensation, and I am pleased that we are being rewarded much earlier than expected. The additional income will assist with everyday expenses, especially with Christmas approaching.”
Highlighting the company’s commitment to fairness, loyalty, and long-term success, JS Pelland, the executive director of Eland Cables, emphasized the importance of treating employees well, leading to improved engagement, pride in work, and enhanced outcomes for all.
Mr. Pelland noted, “Paying the Real Living Wage aligns with our ESG and well-being strategy. Doing so ahead of schedule is simply the right thing to do.” The company’s workforce comprises essential operatives engaged in various roles such as cable cutting, packaging, forklift operation, and site maintenance, with many residing in the local community.
Under Mr. Pelland’s leadership, Eland Cables has achieved a staff retention rate of 88% year-on-year, reduced sickness absences, and increased productivity. The company’s turnover has grown from £107 million in 2020 to over £300 million in 2025.
Furthermore, Eland Cables promotes internal advancement and career progression, exemplified by an individual who started as a site cleaner and worked their way up to become a shift manager.
Mr. Pelland emphasized, “Employees are more dedicated, seeing the bigger picture and feeling part of a collective effort. This fosters consistency, quality, and trust, all vital in our industry.”
