Costa Coffee, one of Britain's most popular coffee chains, has implemented a significant pay increase across all its UK stores. The company announced a £7 million investment to boost wages for more than 16,000 staff members, with the new rates taking effect on April 16.
New Pay Rates
Baristas now receive an hourly wage of £13.12, up from £12.60. Team leaders and coffee trainers, known as Barista Maestros, now earn £13.75 per hour, an increase from the previous range of £12.93 to £13.43. This marks Costa Coffee's seventh wage increase since 2021.
London Premium
Staff working in Central London receive an additional £1 per hour compared to the national rate. This brings their pay to £14.12 for Baristas and £14.75 for Barista Maestros.
Prior to the implementation, the company confirmed that all 16,000 hourly-paid employees in company-owned UK outlets would benefit from the pay rise, as Costa does not operate age banding. Workers are also eligible for bonuses based on high-performing store teams.
Company Statement
Nick Orrin, Costa Coffee's UK&I Managing Director, said: "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."
Costa Coffee highlighted that the investment in employee wages forms part of its continuing commitment to team members, guaranteeing a sustainable and competitive wage structure.
Government Response
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves 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."
