ACS

ACS has welcomed the restraint shown by the Low Pay Commission and Government in introducing the lowest ever annual increase in the national minimum wage since it came in.

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “We believe there was a strong case for no increase in the national minimum wage this year. However we welcome the restraint shown in this announcement of what is the lowest ever annual increase in the national minimum wage.

“ACS has campaigned hard to ensure that we did not see yet another inflation busting increase in the Minimum Wage which has increased by over 60% in 10 years. Another similar increase would have had a damaging impact on employment and undermined economic recovery at a critical time.”

Mr Lowman also commented on the change to the rules on the youth development rate, where, from 1st October 2010, employees aged 21 and over will be entitled to the full adult rate: “Many retailers treat 21 year olds as adults already in their business. We accept this change but it does mean more potential cost for business.”

Contacts:
Shane Brennan Public Affairs Director
01252 515001/ 07921 372 978
Nina Collins Communications Coordinator
01252 515001
Michael Saxton/ Grappa PR
Julie Kirby 020 7602 9222

Notes to Editors:

1. ACS (Association of Convenience Stores) is the voice of local shops, representing over 33,000 convenience stores. ACS helps local shops thrive through lobbying, support and networking opportunities.

2. ACS gave written and oral evidence to the low pay commission during the course of the Inquiry. ACS also co-ordinated a retailer campaign against another unaffordable increase in the wage, this included letter writing briefings and ACS raised the issue in meetings with Ministers.