Dreams has announced an enhanced package of financial and wellbeing support for its teams as Christmas approaches.
The package is delivered through a £5m investment and is part of Dreams’ 'People-First' strategy.
Dreams is advancing its annual pay increase from April 2023 to December 2022, so colleagues see the benefit over the winter period. The increase will range between +4.3-8.6%, with the majority receiving the higher pay boost.
This will be the second pay rise Dreams has awarded its staff this year, following a pay review in April. Dreams’ executive team will not receive an increase.
Other new initiatives being introduced include: discounts on high-street food retailers; free out-of-hours GP service and medical appointments; free financial support, budgeting guidance and debt management advice via The Retail Trust; and continued significant discounts on any products in store and online.
Dreams is also maintaining its tradition of giving retail colleagues a break ahead of the busy trading period. Dreams’ 208 stores across the country will close on Wednesday 21st December, and will reopen on Boxing Day.
Jonathan Hirst, CEO of Dreams, says: “We know that the rising cost of living and recent interest rate spikes means that life is getting harder, not easier, for lots of people, including our colleagues. Our absolute focus is making sure that Dreams continues to be market leading and here for the long term. Looking after our fantastic colleagues and putting them first is our priority – they are what makes our business what it is.
"Despite a challenging operating environment, we wanted to do more to look after our colleagues and their loved ones through this period.”
