NEWS
Bira to respond to Low Pay Commission’s National Living Wage consultation for 2026
Each year, the LPC advises ministers on the 4
The LPC consultation, issued this month, invites
views from businesses, workers, and stakeholders ahead of its recommendation to the Government later this year.
announced in the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement. In its latest consultation, the LPC notes that the National Living Wage (NLW) rose to £12.21 per hour in April 2025 for workers aged 21 and over. This rise met the Government’s target of raising the NLW to two-thirds of median earnings, while also providing a real-terms increase for low-paid workers. To maintain this threshold in 2026, the LPC estimates a rate between £12.50 and £12.80 would be necessary, with a central forecast of £12.65, which would represent a 3.6 per cent increase on current levels, though the LPC cautions that continued wage
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: “With many independent retailers already managing tight margins, assessing the potential impact of further wage increases on small businesses is crucial. The consultation process plays a key role in shaping these decisions and Bira is urging its members to share their feedback to ensure their voices are heard.” The LPC acknowledges the uncertainty in predicting
wage growth, given current economic volatility, and will Submissions to the consultation will inform the
LPC’s recommendation to the Government, expected to be made public later in 2025.
action on appliance sustainability
Hisense launches its largest capacity
Hisense launches its largest capacity
This “breakthrough” appliance offers an impressive 52 litres more storage than
its predecessor, which is made possible through advanced space-optimising engineering, offering consumers a smarter way to store groceries, ingredients, and meal prep essentials, Hisense says. cabinetry, requiring only a 3mm side clearance and 5mm at the top thanks to a re- engineered hinge system and their new underside cooling system. Sustainability is at the core of the model, earning it an Energy Class C rating, today, Hisense says. Additionally, it boasts “advanced cooling technology, including an underside The model is also equipped with smart technology that enhances everyday convenience through Hisense’s exclusive ConnectLife app. To find out more about the Hisense’s cooling products, visit: .
repairability, recycling, smart tech, and consumer education.
progress but warned that more collaboration is needed across the supply chain and with government. “Achieving a fully circular economy is no small task, but as an industry, we are committed to making it happen,” he said. He warned, however, that encouraging repairs over replacements must be balanced with safety: “Repairs must be done correctly and with approved parts sustainability messaging, reform of home energy grant schemes, incentives for Environmental campaigner Sir Jonathon Porritt CBE closed the event with a call
for clearer consumer guidance and more durable product design. He criticised political inaction and urged the industry to lead on low-carbon innovation. “People are confused and often indifferent. The industry must do more to guide them,” he said. in the coming weeks.
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