John Lewis Partnership announced a 6.9% pay rise for shop workers, effective from 1 April, lifting minimum hourly rates to £13.25 nationwide and £14.80 in the M25 corridor.

The company is encouraging staff to spend more time in the office to boost collaboration, while continuing to operate under a hybrid working model.

Management is exploring expanding or reconfiguring office space to support more regular in-person attendance.

The policy prioritizes being in person more often—whether in the office or working with suppliers and customers—without abandoning a hybrid approach.

The push comes on the back of a year in which profits before tax, bonus, and exceptional items rose by 6% to £134 million, and employees received the first annual bonus in four years.

Financial results also highlighted the first annual employee bonus in four years, alongside the 6% profit rise to £134 million.

Overall, the year saw improved profitability before tax, bonus, and exceptional items, contributing to a reaffirmed incentive program for staff.