Eland Cables, a company that supplies electrical cables for major infrastructure projects, has taken the initiative to implement a pay raise for its employees ahead of schedule. The pay increase is aligned with the Real Living Wage, a voluntary wage standard for workers over 18 years old employed by Living Wage Foundation signatory companies.
The Real Living Wage, which aims to cover essential expenses like food and bills, will see an increase of 85p to £13.45 per hour nationwide and 95p to £14.80 per hour in London. This exceeds the minimum wage set by law. The wage hike benefits all employees over 18 working for Real Living Wage employers, totaling over 16,000 companies.
Eland Cables has accelerated the implementation of the higher wage rates, which were originally set to be in effect by May 2026. This move has been well-received by employees like Ben, a 34-year-old father of two from Doncaster, who appreciates the financial relief, especially as the holiday season approaches.
JS Pelland, the executive director of Eland Cables, emphasized that the decision to adopt the new Real Living Wage early reflects the company’s values of fairness, loyalty, and long-term prosperity. Pelland highlighted the positive impact of fair wages on employee retention, engagement, and overall performance.
The company’s commitment to fair compensation has led to significant improvements in employee satisfaction and business outcomes. By prioritizing employee welfare and career development, Eland Cables has achieved remarkable results, including increased turnover and reduced absenteeism.
Overall, the proactive approach taken by Eland Cables in implementing the Real Living Wage early not only benefits its workforce but also underscores the company’s dedication to creating a supportive and thriving work environment.