Argos is the latest company to be ‘named and shamed’ by the UK government for not complying with the National Minimum Wage plan, underpaying their workers.
The national retailer is one of 233 businesses to have been put under the spotlight, with a fine of £800,000 and over £1.5 million in back pay to the affected employees.
The huge underpayment topped the list of the latest employers who have been paying below the minimum wage since 2015.
The National Living Wage is currently set at £7.50 an hour and must be paid to all those aged 25 and over.
It is reported that over 12,000 staff members have been underpaid costing the retailer nearly £1.5 million in back pay.
Retailers, hairdressers and hospitality firms were the most prolific offenders.
The investigation into minimum pay is led by business minister Margot James, who said:
“Workers must get paid at least minimum wage rates and naming and shaming sends the clear message to employers that the government will not tolerate underpayment.”
This follows on from the exposure of retail giants John Lewis Partnership, who set aside £36 million after breaching the minimum wage laws.
James said that some businesses are making, “genuine mistakes” but that, “employers should know the law”.
ShopWorks’ time and attendance platform prevents any underpayment and our compliance module ensures all pay rules are put in place to ensure employees are never underpaid. Our bespoke software also offers, budgeting and demand management, holiday management software and integrated training modules.
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