In a move that has sparked controversy, BP is set to remove paid rest breaks and scrap premium pay for most bank holidays for thousands of its petrol station staff across the UK. The changes, which will affect around 5,400 employees, are being introduced as the energy giant seeks to offset a scheduled increase in the independently set living wage.
Details of the Benefit Cuts
The company has informed workers at its 310 directly managed forecourts that the new terms will take effect in February 2025. Staff at an additional 850 partner-run sites bearing the BP brand are on separate contracts and are not immediately affected. BP is an accredited member of the Living Wage Foundation, committing to pay a wage that meets real living costs.
While the hourly rate for impacted workers will rise from £12.60 to £13.45 per hour in February—a 6.7% increase aligned with the Foundation's recommendation—the removal of key benefits will significantly erode this gain. One worker estimated the changes would reduce their take-home pay by at least 6.25%, a figure BP disputes without providing its own calculation.
What Staff Are Losing
Currently, most BP forecourt employees are paid for a 20-minute break during a four-to-six hour shift, or a 30-minute break for shifts over six hours. They also typically receive 1.5 times their normal hourly rate for working on bank holidays. Under the new regime, these paid breaks and most holiday premiums will be eliminated.
According to analysis, the net financial impact for an employee working an eight-hour shift with a 30-minute break will be minimal, with pay rising just 7 pence to £100.87. However, workers and unions argue the move represents a stealth pay cut and a reduction in overall working conditions.
Worker Backlash and Legal Context
A source expressed frustration, accusing BP of presenting the mandatory living wage increase as a "new benefit" to compensate for the cut perks. They also raised concerns that staff might feel pressured to accept the changes without fully understanding their rights or receiving compensation for the altered terms.
It is important to note that while UK employment law entitles workers to a 20-minute uninterrupted rest break when working more than six hours, it does not require employers to pay for that time. This legal loophole has allowed several major retailers, including Asda, Morrisons, and Sainsbury's, to make similar cuts in recent years.
Paul Nowak, the TUC General Secretary, condemned the move: "Workers are still suffering a severe cost of living hangover... This would be the worst possible time for BP to cut benefits and impose a stealth pay reduction."
BP's Official Statement
BP confirmed the changes, stating it regularly reviews pay and benefits to remain competitive. A spokesperson said: "From February, we will no longer pay for rest breaks and pay premium rates on fewer national bank holidays. However, we will be increasing our base hourly pay and, to help support colleagues, we will bring in this annual increase two months earlier than usual."
The dispute highlights the tension many businesses face between rising statutory wage floors and the overall cost of employment, with benefits often being adjusted to balance the books. The outcome for BP's forecourt staff sets a significant precedent for the retail and service sectors across the UK.
