Currys has invested £8m in what it calls an “inflation-beating boost” to hourly paid colleagues.

The electricals retailer said staff will benefit from a higher hourly rate combined with its bonus programme.

Skilled hourly paid colleagues who have passed onboarding will see their minimum hourly rate rise to £12.51 outside of the M25, and £13.51 in London. 

For top performing colleagues, this pushes average earnings to £13.47 per hour and £14.07 per hour respectively, with bonuses.

Currys has raided minimum hourly pay for skilled store colleagues by 32% over the past three years. It said a colleague working 20 hours a week will have seen their annual earnings increase by over £3,000 over this period.

The retailer also continues to invest in its extensive programme of learning and development with the aim of increasing skills and earning potential of colleagues.

Currys chief people, communications and sustainability officer Paula Coughlan said: “Retail has seen a barrage of financial headwinds recently, but we recognise that it’s our colleagues’ dedication and skill that ensure we’re still winning despite the challenging business environment. 

“We’re delighted to be able to offer colleagues this latest pay rise, which is double the current rate of inflation, further demonstrating our commitment to them. It’s thanks to their skill and expertise that we keep helping everyone enjoy amazing technology at a time where many find it increasingly confusing and expensive.

“I’m determined to continue making Currys an ever-better place to build skills for life and grow meaningful careers.” 

Currys offers other benefits such as a bonus, 10% discount, pensions, flexible benefits, share plans, and health and wellbeing benefits.