Costa Coffee announces pay rise for more than 16,000 workers

Costa Coffee has announced its seventh pay increase since 2021, taking effect from April 1, 2026, for more than 16,000 team members across its 1,500 company-owned stores in the UK.

Baristas will see their hourly wage rise from £12.60 to £13.12, while more experienced team leaders known as Barista Maestros will earn £13.75 per hour, up from £12.93 to £13.43.

Costa Coffee has announced that it will increase pay from April 1 for over 16,000 team members. (Image: Costa Coffee)

Nick Orrin, Costa Coffee’s UK and Ireland managing director, said: "Our talented baristas and team members are the heart of Costa Coffee, with every drink shaped by their expertise, skill and passion.

"This latest pay uplift reflects our ongoing commitment to recognise, reward and invest in the people who deliver great coffee experiences and daily rituals for our customers across the UK."

Store managers will receive a three per cent pay increase.

In central London, baristas will earn £14.12 per hour, and barista maestros will receive £14.75 per hour.

Chancellor of the exchequer Rachel Reeves said: “It’s fantastic to hear that Costa Coffee are recognising and supporting their hard-working staff with this pay increase.

"Hard work should be rewarded, which is why from April, our increase to the National Living Wage will benefit 2.4 million people, with full-time workers on the National Living Wage being £900 a year better off.”

Costa Coffee does not use age-banded pay, ensuring all hourly-paid team members receive the increase.

The company also offers a range of employee benefits, including a share incentive plan, a 50 per cent in-store discount, and a financial support fund.