Sainsbury’s has announced a 4% pay rise for in-store staff to bring their salaries to above the new National Living Wage.

From 30 August 137,000 employees will see their pay increase to £7.36 an hour, up from £7.08. The new rate will also apply to staff under the age of 25.

The government’s recently-announced National Living Wage will increase to £7.20 for workers aged 25 and above from April 2016. The current minimum wage is £6.50 an hour.

Sainsbury’s CEO Mike Coupe said: “We’re delighted to announce a 4% pay increase for the colleagues who work in our stores across the country. We know what a difference they make to our customers each and every day and we’re totally committed to rewarding them well for the great service they provide. 

“I’ve talked to thousands of colleagues over the past year and they tell me how much they value their package of benefits and the flexibility that we can offer as an employer, as well as hourly pay which has always been well over the minimum wage. 

“Their hard work, talent and dedication have been central to our success and will remain so in the future.”