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Next Boss Living Wage Is Irrelevant

Next Boss: Living Wage Is Irrelevant

Written by W.E.U Admin on . Posted in Improving Working Lives.

The Workers of England Union strongly condemns Lord Wolfson’s assertion that the living wage is “irrelevant.” His comments demonstrate a profound disconnect from the daily realities faced by part-time and full-time staff. It is insulting to dismiss what employees earn per hour as unimportant. The concentration of wealth and power remains one of the oldest conflicts in our society.

Why the Living Wage Matters

What you earn is very important. Those at the top will forever argue that low wages benefit us all—but we disagree. The Workers of England Union is challenging this narrative. We demand:

  • Better wages for all workers
  • Shorter hours to improve work–life balance
  • A living wage that allows time for family and community

If you believe in the living wage, join our campaign. Help us secure fair pay and dignity at work. If you know anyone employed by Next, please forward our details—they need a Trade Union to fight on their behalf.

Next Boss Sparks Outrage Over “Irrelevant” Living Wage Comment

The multi-millionaire head of Next ignited controversy after declaring the living wage “an invention” with “no basis in reality.” Despite earning £4.6 million last year, Lord Wolfson labeled the living wage as irrelevant for retail workers.

Key Article Highlights

  • Next boss earned £4.6 million last year yet pays shop workers £6.70/hour
  • Lord Wolfson: “The living wage is an invention and not a reality.”
  • Average Next salary: £11,000 per annum for 48,417 employees
  • Current living wage: £7.85/hour in the UK, £9.15/hour in London

Lord Wolfson’s argument rests on the idea that total earnings, not hourly rates, determine living standards—ignoring the fact that most retail roles are part-time. He believes a person’s circumstances, rather than a fair rate, dictate whether they can “live on” their wages.

Company Performance and Political Uncertainty

On the same day, Next reported a 12.5% rise in pre-tax profit to £794.8 million and a 16.3% dividend increase. Lord Wolfson also warned that upcoming elections add “political uncertainty” affecting consumer spending.

Read more from the Daily Mail: Next boss sparks row by declaring living wage irrelevant

Further Reading

  • Next boss who earns £4 million a year sparks row
  • Living wage campaign launch
  • Striving for fair wages


workersofengland.co.uk | Independent Workers Trade Union