British co-operative group Co-op has confirmed a substantial pay increase for its frontline store colleagues, aligning with the UK's Real Living Wage.  

From 1 April 2023, customer team members will see their hourly rate rise from £10.90 to £12, a 10.1% increase from 2023 and a 21% rise since March 2022.  

The move marks the retailer's largest investment in employee pay since 2022, underlining its commitment to supporting its lowest-paid workers. 

In London, Co-op customer team members will experience an hourly rate rise from £12.25 to £13.15, while team leaders receive a 10.1% increase from £12.10 to £13.32 per hour.  

These changes are part of Co-op's broader initiative to support its colleagues. 

The retailer introduced enhanced fertility policies to support individuals in 2022. 

In 2023 it introduced a new market-leading compassionate leave policy offering greater flexibility for paid leave for bereavement. It gives discretion to managers to grant up to ten days of paid leave. 

Co-op food managing director Matt Hood said: “Our store colleagues are the heart of our member-owned business and we truly value their dedication and hard work. We’re proud to continue to be aligned to the Real Living Wage, which makes Co-op one of the top food retailers in terms of pay. 

“Co-op continues to operate in challenging environments and volatile markets, some of which we have only recently stabilised. However, we believe this investment in our colleagues is of paramount importance to recognise their outstanding commitment to serving our member-owners and shoppers in communities all across the UK. 

“Additionally, we continue to offer a competitive package to all our colleagues compared to other retailers, including paid breaks, 30% own brand colleague discount and industry-leading leave policies.” 

Co-op recently announced the opening of its latest convenience store in Wrotham Road, Welling.