CHRISTMAS has come early for lucky JCB employees as the digger giant announced a £500 festive bonus and a pay increase.
The Rocester-based company has revealed its Christmas bonus as well as a three per cent pay increase as around 5,000 employees at factories in Staffordshire, Derbyshire and Wrexham share a bonus package worth £2.5 million.
From January 1, UK employees will receive the pay increase linked to November’s retail price index, in line with a three-and-a-half year pay deal.
JCB chairman Sir Anthony Bamford said: “JCB has performed well in 2012. We had a strong start to the year although it has become a lot tougher in recent months, but overall it’s been a good year.
“I’m delighted we’re able to award another Christmas bonus this year as a thank-you for everyone’s hard work.”
The news was met with delight as Doveridge resident Anna Mackenberg, the international human resources advisor, explained she had not expected it.
The 31-year-old, who was celebrating her birthday when the announcement was made, said: “It was excellent news, a fantastic surprise because it is something we don’t take for granted as it is the chairman’s decision. There is a good atmosphere among the staff.”
