Business · 3 September 2026

Hundreds of firms fined for underpaying staff since April

Illustration: AI-generated for editorial context. Not photographic evidence.

Over 600 UK businesses, including DIY chain B&Q and fast food company Five Guys, were identified by the government as having underpaid staff since April. These employers have been ordered to return £4 million to affected workers and face £7 million in penalties. B&Q blamed geographical allowance calculations for its underpayments, while Five Guys cited technical differences in payroll regulations.

By BriefTea Editorial · 3 September 2026 at 5:24

Reported by BBC · How we write briefs

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