Costa Coffee Implements £13 Minimum Wage Rule for Baristas
The coffee industry giant Costa Coffee has made a significant announcement today, revealing a substantial pay increase for its barista workforce across the United Kingdom. Effective from 1 April 2026, the company will implement a new minimum wage rule, ensuring all baristas earn at least £13 per hour.
Details of the Pay Increase
This initiative involves a £7 million investment that will benefit over 16,000 team members employed in more than 1,500 company-owned Costa Coffee stores nationwide. The pay rise represents a 4.1% increase, lifting the hourly rate for baristas from £12.60 to £13.12 per hour.
Nick Orrin, Costa Coffee's UK&I Managing Director, emphasized the importance of this move, stating: "Our talented Baristas and team members are the heart of Costa Coffee, with every drink shaped by their expertise, skill and passion. This latest pay uplift reflects our ongoing commitment to recognise, reward and invest in the people who deliver great coffee experiences and daily rituals for our customers across the UK."
Regional Variations and Additional Benefits
Team members working in Central London will receive an enhanced rate, with an extra £1 per hour added to the national standard. This adjustment brings the hourly pay for baristas in the capital to £14.12, while Barista Maestros will earn £14.75 per hour.
Costa Coffee has confirmed that the pay increase will apply universally to all hourly-paid team members in company-owned stores, as the company does not operate age-based pay bandings. In addition to the base wage hike, targeted bonuses will be offered to high-performing store teams as part of the incentive structure.
Political and Industry Context
The announcement has garnered positive reactions from political figures, including Labour Party Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves, who commented: "It's fantastic to hear that Costa Coffee are recognising and supporting their hard-working staff with this pay increase. Hard work should be rewarded, which is why from April, our increase to the National Living Wage will benefit 2.4 million people, with full-time workers on the National Living Wage being £900 a year better off."
This move by Costa Coffee aligns with similar initiatives undertaken by major retailers such as Sainsbury's, Tesco, Lidl, and Aldi, all of which have recently introduced their own versions of a £13 minimum wage rule. The trend reflects a broader industry shift towards offering more competitive and sustainable compensation packages for frontline staff.
Costa Coffee, which operates numerous branches in Birmingham and competes with rivals like Starbucks, frames this pay rise as part of its ongoing commitment to employee welfare. The company aims to ensure that its team members receive remuneration that not only meets but exceeds industry standards, fostering a motivated and dedicated workforce.
