AN INTERNATIONAL shipping agent based in Southampton has given all its staff a £750-a-year pay rise in a bid to help them with the cost of living crisis.

The boss of Supreme Freight said the salary hike was aimed at helping with the rising cost of essentials such as energy and food.

The boost, which took effect from May 1, affects all 72 staff at the family-run business, based at Millbrook Road East.

Managing director Christopher Green, who founded the business in 1986, said in an email to staff: “The directors and I are pleased to offer all our staff members a permanent £750 per annum pay increase, effective May 1.

“We are all aware of the rising cost of energy, petrol, and food.

“Inflation is high and the uncertainty of the war in Ukraine are increasing consumer costs.

“We hope that our financial support will assist all our staff, and their families, with these escalating costs.

“As we move into our 37th year of trading we would also like to express our heartfelt thanks to all our staff for their fantastic hard work.”

Employee Verity Treverton-Jones said: “The pay increase is a lovely gesture from the company.”

Employee Mark Pearson said: “It is really wonderful to be recognised by the directors for effort and time put in. Makes you feel wanted and appreciated.”

Amber Burton said: “To receive this pay increase as a recognition of the hard times we are all facing with the increasing energy prices has given me and my family confidence, knowing that we can remain comfortable at home. Taking the pressure off makes all the difference.”

Lynn Wood said: “Working for a family-run company means you are more than a number., No matter how big the company grows, they ensure their door is always open to listen to your needs and requirements to be happy at work and at home.

"There is a good work-life balance and they always match the ever-increasing inflation rises and ensure we have more than enough to survive these trying times.”

Supreme Freight has offices in Felixstowe, Heathrow, Hong Kong and in Guangzhou and Shenzhen in China.

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