Celebrating Living Wage Week 10-16 Novemeber 2025

Celebrating Living Wage Week!

Right now, the cost of living dominates the headlines, and with a deeply consequential Budget looming, it feels hard for anyone - individuals, businesses, Chancellors or governments - to make a decision that feels wholly positive.

However, here at Paper Tiger, we have a decision that we’ve stood by for over 15 years: our commitment to the Real Living Wage.

As one of the first Living Wage employers in Scotland, this isn't just about compliance; it's a foundational belief that directly supports one of our core values:  'Empowered People'. It is the most robust way that we can invest in our team's financial and mental wellbeing, allowing them to truly thrive in a busy and supportive environment.

It’s also a reason why we don't have to recruit too often: our team stays. They know our commitment to the Real Living Wage is a commitment to them. Over the years, this stability has supported the Paper Tiger team through massive life decisions, from getting on the property ladder and raising children, to simply enjoying the financial flexibility of a meal out, adding beloved pets to the family, or enjoying a holiday or a weekend away.

This commitment underpins our entire approach to business. Our customers and suppliers know it’s one of the ways that we show up as team and as people: as a wildly independent retailer, doing business in a responsible and ethical way. 

It’s a simple, consequential commitment that ensures everyone - from our staff to our suppliers and our customers - feels the care and consideration, and also the opportunity to have some fun along the journey!

This week is Living Wage Week (November 10-16), and at Paper Tiger, it's a perfect time to reflect on why paying the Real Living Wage is fundamental to who we are. As one of the first Living Wage Foundation employers for Living Wage Scotland, our commitment to fair pay is a direct expression of our core business values.

The theme for this year's Living Wage Week is 'The Difference It Makes', and for us, that difference is felt most directly through our commitment to our people. We know that people make the difference at Paper Tiger - the people who work here and the community of makers that we support. Most importantly, we are always focused on the customers who recognise and respect what we do, and support our commitment. 

That commitment ensures that our enthusiastic and passionate team members earn a wage based on the true cost of living, which significantly supports their staff wellbeing.

As one of the first Living Wage employers in Scotland, this isn't just about compliance; it's a foundational belief that directly supports one of our core values:  'Empowered People'. It is the most robust way that we can invest in our team's financial and mental wellbeing, allowing them to truly thrive in a busy and supportive environment.

Paying the Real Living Wage is the bedrock of this commitment to our team. Support Living Wage employers this Christmas.