Bed retailer Dreams is providing an enhanced package of financial and wellbeing support for its teams as the cost-of-living crisis continues.

The package is delivered through a £5m investment and is part of Dreams’ People-First strategy.

Dreams is advancing its annual pay increase, from April 2023 to December 2022, so colleagues feel the benefit over the winter period. The increase will range between 4.3-8.6%, with the majority receiving the higher pay boost. This will be the second pay rise Dreams has awarded colleagues this year, following a pay review in April. Dreams’ executive team will not receive an increase.

It is also maintaining its tradition of giving retail colleagues a ‘well-deserved break’ ahead of the busy trading period. Dreams’ 208 stores across the country will close on Wednesday 21st December, giving colleagues time off to celebrate with friends and family. Stores will reopen for trading on Boxing Day, Monday 26th December.

Jonathan Hirst, CEO of Dreams, said: “We know that the rising cost of living and recent interest rate spikes means that life is getting harder, not easier for lots of people, including our colleagues. Our absolute focus is making sure that Dreams continues to be market-leading and here for the long-term. Looking after our fantastic colleagues and putting them first is our priority; they are what makes our business what it is

“Despite a challenging operating environment, we wanted to do more to look after our colleagues and their loved ones through this period.”