UK Minimum Wage Increase in 2025: What Employers and Job Seekers Need To know 

Written By Charlotte Sowden

The UK is set to increase the National Minimum Wage 2025 from 1st April 2025, impacting businesses, employees, and the recruitment industry. This change will affect companies across all sectors, from retail to warehouse jobs, as well as individuals seeking jobs in Devon and beyond. Whether you’re and employer looking to stay compliant or a job seeker exploring new opportunities, understanding these changes is crucial. 

New Minimum Wage Rates for 2025 

From 1 April 2025, the new UK minimum wage rates will be: 

Age Group  - New Hourly Rate - Previous Rate (2024) 

21 and over - £12.21  - £11.44 

18 to 20  - £10.00   - £8.60 

16 to 17 & Apprentices - £7.55  - £6.40 

(Source: UK Government Minimum Wage Guidelines) 

For additional details on UK employment laws and worker rights, visit the official ACAS website. 

How This Affects Employers 

The Increase in labour costs means businesses need to adapt their hiring strategies. Key considerations for employers include: 

  • Budget Adjustments: Higher wages mean increased payroll expenses. Businesses must review budgets to accommodate these changes 

  • Recruitment Challenges: Some employers may reduce hiring or look for Cost-effective recruitment solutions 

  • Apprenticeship Schemes: Employers can offset costs by exploring government-supported apprenticeship programs. More information is available at Apprenticeships.gov.uk 

 

Impact on Job Seekers: 

The increase in wages is good news for workers across various industries. Here’s what job seekers should know: 

  • Higher Pay: More job roles will now offer a competitive salary, attracting top talent. 

  • Increase Competition: As wages rise, more qualified professionals will apply for jobs, making the market more competitive. 

  • Upskilling opportunities: Employers may prefer candidates with better skills and experience. Investing in professional development can boost employability. Check out free training programs at National Careers Service. 

Find the Right Job with Recruitment Agencies in Devon 

The Southwest is lucky enough to be home to some of the UK Leading Recruitment Agencies. If your searching for job vacancies in Exeter, Newton Abbot, Tiverton, Cullompton, or surround areas, our team at Recruitment Unlimited is here to help. We specialize in connecting job seekers with a wide range of opportunities, from warehouse jobs, engineering jobs, and production operative jobs to roles in administration customer service, health care, and IT. 

For employers, Recruitment Unlimited can provide tailored recruitment services for job seekers and businesses alike. Whether you are looking for a Recruitment Agency in Devon to help with a single vacancy or a full HR Outsourcing Services, we have the expertise to connect the right candidates with the right opportunities.  

How Recruitment Unlimited Can Help both Employers and Job Seekers 

As a leading recruitment agency in Devon, we understand the challenges that local businesses face with wage increases and the increases competition this now puts on job seekers. Here’s how Recruitment Unlimited can support both employers & job seekers alike. 

 

 For Employers: 

Cost-Effective Recruitment: Partnering with us can alleviate the cost of having your own in-house recruitment team. We help businesses find qualified candidates without the expense overheads. 

Compliance Assurance: Our highly trained recruitment consultants, ensure that all hires meet right to work and legal wage requirements 

Workforce Planning: We offer tailored hiring strategies that can be adapted to the needs of your businesses and the new wage structure. 

Industry-Specific Hiring: We specialize in a range of sectors and can source suitable candidates for roles such as Warehouse Jobs, Production Operative Jobs, Engineering Jobs and more, ensuring businesses find skilled workers quickly and efficiently. 

Provide Useful insights: Supporting our clients is everything, we don’t just find candidates, we provide advice to employers. For example, businesses struggling with the new wage increase may be eligible for support through wage subsides or hiring grants. For more information visit GOV.UK Business Support 

For Job Seekers: 

  • Access to High-Paying roles: We work with our clients to benchmark salaries ensuring we connect candidates with well-paying job opportunities. 

  • Career Advices & CV Support: Our Services help applicants stand out in a competitive job market. 

  • Additional Support: We work closely with JobCentre Plus to help job seeker overcome any barriers to employment. Further information can be found at JobCentre Plus 

Final thoughts 

The National Minimum Wage 2025 increasewill have a major impact on businesses and workers alike. Employers must plan ahead, while job seekers can take advantage of better wages and career opportunities 

At Recruitment Unlimited we are here to support all, whether you a employer looking for a local recruitment agency that can provide tailored recruitment services to suit your business needs or a job seeker looking to access the best job opportunities in devon, we can help. 

Need recruitment Support? Contact us today at Recruitment Unlimited to navigate the changing job market with ease! 

For more information on wage regulations, cist the official UK Government Minimum Wage page 

Charlotte Sowden
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