Itsu introduces 11% entry level pay rise

Itsu has introduced an 11% hourly wage rise for its entry level employees to a minimum of £10.40 an hour.

Effective from 17 September, the increase will impact 1,000 existing employees across the group’s 72 UK sites.

Through the wage hike, the Asian-inspired restaurant group plans to extend its level of organic opportunities for staff members, with 90% of current store managers starting as a team member at the company.

Ganan Kanagathurai, UK CEO at Itsu, said: “We are delighted to announce that we are leading the way in the hospitality industry, increasing wages for new and existing team members.  

“This investment reinforces our commitment to the people that deliver the outstanding quality food and customer service levels we are renowned for in the market. An investment in our people is an investment in the business.”

Both part-time and full-time positions are offered at the firm, which avoids the use of zero-hour contracts.

Julian Metcalfe, founder of the restaurant group, added: “Our team members are the heart of our business and the face of our brand for our customers in-store. 

“Itsu has always offered an incredibly attractive career path and this announcement will only increase the number of people that want to join our mission to deliver high quality, nutritious food at an affordable price.”