Currys CIO Andy Gamble: UK government's Make Work Pay plan could hit part-time workers and retailers

Andy Gamble, CIO at Currys, has taken to social media to discuss the UK government's Make Work Pay plan.

The aim here is to tackle low pay, poor working conditions and poor job security. The plan is designed to help more people to stay in work, support workers’ productivity and improve living standards.

In a LinkedIn post, Gamble posted a link to a The Sunday Times article by Group Chief Executive Alex Baldock, in which Baldock talked about an employee called Josh.

Gamble commented: "I got my first start in retail while in full time education. So many people I know did. So did Josh. Eight years ago, he took a part-time job at Currys - no experience, just a need for flexibility. Today, he’s a manager. Thousands rely on flexible retail jobs to get into work."

He added: "But that door is at risk of closing. A 13% tax hike and new employment laws could make jobs like the younger Josh’s unviable. More red tape = Fewer jobs = Fewer opportunities. The UK government must listen to business in terms of what comes next."

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Workforce management will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which will open for entries in March, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.