Two Manchester businesses have been named and shamed for failing to pay their workers minimum wage.
Dove Mill Retail Outlet in Bolton failed to pay £461.84 to a worker and HSS Hire Service Group in Manchester failed to pay £149.00 to 15 workers.
The companies were investigated by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) after members of staff called a free helpline to report they were being underpaid.
Both were revealed as part of a government initiative launched in October to name and shame companies who break minimum wage law.
Business minister Jenny Willott said: “Paying less than the minimum wage is not only wrong, it’s illegal.
“If employers break the law they need to know that they will face tough consequences.”
Employers who underpay will face a £20,000 fine per employee who is underpaid under new plans announced in the Queen’s Speech last week.
TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady said: “It’s great that minimum wage crooks are finally getting named and shamed.
“Under-paying your lowest paid staff is immoral and illegal. Employers caught in the act deserve to be fined and have their reputation ruined.
“This should send a clear message that dodging the minimum wage does not pay. All minimum wage cheats should be named and shamed, and HMRC need greater resources to catch even more crooks.”
Dove Mill is a textile store which sells bedding, curtains and home ware. It operates from a 100-year-old Victorian Cotton Mill and has a stand alone store in Ormskirk.
HSS Hire is a national supplier of tool and equipment hire, they provide equipment management and hire services to big businesses, trade and DIY customers.
When the minimum was first introduced it decreed that adult workers had to be paid at least £3.60 an hour, with those under 22 getting £3.
The rates currently stand at £6.31 for those aged 22 and above, £5.03 for 18 to 20-year-olds, and £3.72 for those under 18.
If workers believe that they are not being paid the wage they are legally entitled to they should call the Pay and Work Rights helpline on 0800 917 2368.
Image courtesy of Google Maps, with thanks.
