Two Peterborough businesses named for allegedly underpaying staff the national minimum wage

The two businesses are among 500 employers nationally that have been named by the Government for under paying employers the national minimum wage to which they are legally entitled.

In total, the 500 companies have been fined £10.2 million for failing to pay the National Minimum Wage, according to figures released by the Department of Business and Trade.

The Peterborough businesses include Thamel 91 Asian Food Company, which trades as 2020 World Buffet, based in New Road, Peterborough, and which it is said has underpaid £844.68 to 13 workers.

This means each employee is owed £64.98 with the underpayment dating from between October 26, 2021 to June 25, 2022.

Mr Bhakta, a partner in the business, said: “I’m not aware of this but if we do owe the money it will be paid.

"We operate a proper payroll system.”

The other business is Opal and Pearl Cleaning, of London Road, which it is claimed underpaid a total of £2,338.59 to 11 members of staff.

The figures show it means an average of £212 per person is owed with the underpayment taking place between May 29, 2018 to October 22, 2018.

A spokesperson for the business was not available to comment.

Following the release of the details of the 500 businesses and the amount underpaid to staff, the Government’s Business Secretary Peter Kyle said: “Every worker deserves a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work, and this government will not tolerate rogue employers who short-change their staff.

"I know that no employer wants to end up on one of these lists. But our Plan to Make Work Pay cracks down on those not playing by the rules.

"This ensures a level playing field where all businesses pay what they owe whilst workers receive the boost to their living standards they deserve.

"This action comes as the Government introduces the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights and enforcement for a generation through its Plan to Make Work Pay, which is set to directly benefit around 15 million, or half of all UK, workers.

He added: “As well as ensuring hard work is properly rewarded with fair treatment and decent pay, from April 2026 the Employment Rights Bill will also establish a new Fair Work Agency with more powers to tackle employers underpaying workers and failing to pay holiday and sick pay.”

Across the country about 42,000 workers have been repaid by their employers, including well-known high street brands, with employers receiving fines totalling £10.2 million for breaking the rules.

The companies named span sectors including hairdressing, fashion, publishing, hospitality, health and fitness, automotive, social care, and retail.

What are the National Living Wage and National Minimum wage rates?

21 and over – £12.21

18 to 20 – £10

Under 18 – £7.55

Apprentice – £7.55