Report: A major retailer boosting minimum wage — again

Conshohocken, Pa. – Home furnishings giant Ikea is increasing the minimum wage it pays to U.S. employees in stores and some distribution centers for the second straight year.



According to the Associated Press, Ikea’s average U.S. minimum hourly wage will rise about 10% to $11.87 from $10.76 as of Jan. 1, 2016.



Thirty-two percent of Ikea’s U.S. staff will be affected, and total average hourly wage will rise to $15.45 from $14.19 as a result. Raises may also vary according to cost of living in different store locations.



Last June, the retailer announced would raise its hourly minimum wage in U.S. stores from $9.17 to $10.76, a 17.3% hike.



The current federal minimum wage is $7.25. A number of retail chains, most notably Wal-Mart, have recently increased their corporate minimum wage in response to increased public pressure and scrutiny.