Some thoughts for hiring managers:

Bonus payments

• As in previous years companies offering clear structures towards bonuses/commission rather than an opaque structure & unclear criteria will always attract better candidates and retain staff. If a bonus payment can include an element of target-focused payments rather than 100% discretionary this is more attractive for potential candidates.

Other benefits

• Benefits such as alcohol allowance/being able to buy portfolio wine or spirits at cost, medical & health insurance are very popular and do make a difference in hiring and also in retaining employees across all roles.
• Candidates will consider moving roles for a smaller salary increase if benefits are significantly better, especially company pension contribution levels above the standard government percentage. Companies offering these benefits do attract better candidates and it can make the difference between 2 roles offered simultaneously.

Holiday days

• Holiday allowance is typically 25 days + UK bank holidays – anything above this is a huge plus! Annual holiday allowance of 20 days can make it difficult to attract  retain candidates.

Hybrid Working

• Flexibility/working from home: now a normal part of the working week Most companies have settled with a hybrid structure of 3 days in the office and 2 at home – the days being Mon/Fri working from home and Tues/Wed/Thurs in the office.
• Salespeople tend to spend more time at home/with clients and typically meet 1 day a week in the office although this can vary; those selling to multiple retailers tend to go to the office least.

Drinks Industry qualifications

• A significant benefit to candidates in drinks roles is the company paying for WSET qualifications or the MW (wine). This does means that employees stay longer in their roles as it builds loyalty and goodwill. Additionally on completion of the qualification it is normal to ensure (contractually) that either the employee stays with the company for a period of time (often 2 years) or they refund a portion of the fee to the company if moving on sooner.