Stratford’s hospitality sector has a new living wage employer, United Way Perth Huron announced Thursday.
Stratford’s hospitality sector has a new living wage employer, United Way Perth Huron announced Thursday.
The Bruce Hotel is now part of the Ontario Living Wage Network.
“We are thrilled,” general manager Jennifer Belanger said in a press release. “The success of our company is based on how valued our employees feel. The Bruce Hotel is committed to creating a culture where the team feels heard, seen and compensated in a way that provides them an enriching quality of life.”
The living wage in Perth and Huron counties – set at $17.95 in November – is calculated annually using local data to determine the average living expenses of a variety of family types based on a 35-hour work week. Everyday expenses in the calculation include housing, food, utilities, childcare and transportation.
There are now 43 certified living wage employers in Perth and Huron counties.
Ontario’s minimum wage was raised from $14.35 to $15 an hour at the beginning of this year.
“We are happy to announce The Bruce Hotel’s living wage certification,” said Ryan Erb, executive director of the region’s United Way Branch. “Their commitment to the well-being of their employees and the health of the community shows leadership in helping the local tourism sector start building back better.”