Inflation-busting pay rise for staff
A WEDDING venue group has given an immediate inflation-busting pay rise to staff.
The Oldwalls Collection, which operates two popular wedding venues in the Gower, Swansea, has launched a Pay Awards scheme to support employees during the costof-living crisis after UK inflation hit 7% in March, the highest in three decades.
Existing salaried staff, with salaries ranging from £24,000 to £50,000, will receive an immediate pay rise averaging 12%, while hourly staff will receive an increase on their wages as the company scraps National Minimum and Living Wage rates, allowing under 20s working in the firm to earn up to 56% over the minimum wage.
Managing director Andrew Hole, who started the company with brother Simon in 2008, said: “Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our loyal team we’ve bounced back to deliver some truly incredible wedding celebrations. It’s our duty to provide financial security to get our staff through the costof-living crisis.”
He added: “We are currently proud employers of over 160 - this is our largest ever headcount and still growing.
“Hospitality remains an exciting career prospect and we aim to drive the standards to ensure hospitality employees are recognised and properly remunerated for the amazing work they do.”
The Oldwalls Collection is the largest employer in Gower. Over 50% of its salaried workforce earn more than £30,000 per year, 20-25% higher than the average Wales salary in hospitality currently at £25,000.