Hard Work and Fair Pay
Before we launched our Brighton removals business, we cut our teeth in industries that demand resilience, strength, and skill.
Construction taught us precision and discipline; landscaping required stamina and creativity; and removals honed our ability to problem-solve, work efficiently, and handle customers’ belongings with care. Each of these fields had one thing in common—physically demanding work that often goes unappreciated and, in too many cases, underpaid.
That’s why, when we set up ESV Removals Ltd, we made a firm commitment: our team would always be paid fairly and treated with respect. We know what it’s like to put in a long, exhausting shift and feel like your effort isn’t reflected in your pay. We don’t want that for our team. We want our staff to know that their dedication is valued and that their wages allow them to live comfortably in Brighton.
Why the Living Wage Matters in Brighton Removals
The living wage is more than just a number—it’s a benchmark for fair pay that ensures workers can meet their everyday needs. The official minimum wage often falls short of covering rent, bills, and basic necessities, especially in a city like Brighton where the cost of living is high. The real living wage, as set by the Living Wage Foundation, is calculated based on what employees actually need to afford a decent standard of living. We believe this should be the minimum expectation for all businesses, particularly in industries like removals.
By paying above the living wage, we’re making sure our team members don’t just get by but can actually thrive. It means they can afford to live locally, support their families, and enjoy a decent quality of life without financial stress weighing them down.
The Impact on Our Brighton Removals Team
A fair wage doesn’t just benefit our employees—it improves the overall quality of our service. When workers are paid properly, they are more motivated, more engaged, and more committed to doing the best job possible. They know they are valued, and that translates into how they approach their work and interact with customers.
Our team members work incredibly hard. They lift and transport heavy furniture, carefully pack and protect valuable belongings, navigate tight staircases, and deal with the logistical challenges of removals every day. Their expertise and effort deserve recognition, and fair pay is one of the best ways we can show our appreciation.
In turn, this leads to better customer experiences. A well-paid, well-treated team is a happy and professional one. Our customers can trust that the people handling their possessions are not only experienced and careful but also motivated and satisfied in their roles.
Supporting Our Local Brighton Community
Paying above the living wage isn’t just about our business; it’s about our city. Brighton is an incredible place, but it’s also an expensive one. Too many workers struggle to make ends meet because wages haven’t kept up with rising costs. By committing to fair pay, we’re doing our bit to support the wider community.
When workers earn decent wages, they spend that money locally—at cafés, shops, and independent businesses. It strengthens the local economy and helps Brighton thrive. It’s a ripple effect: when businesses invest in their employees, the entire community benefits.
We encourage other businesses in the Brighton removals and transport sector to step up and do the same. The industry has a reputation for low wages and tough conditions, but we believe that can change. By setting an example, we hope to inspire other companies to prioritise fair pay and better working conditions for their teams.
The Challenges and Why It’s Worth It
We won’t pretend that paying above the living wage is always easy. Running a Brighton removals business comes with costs—fuel, vehicle maintenance, insurance, and equipment, to name a few. Competitive pricing is essential to stay in business, and there’s constant pressure to keep costs down.
However, we firmly believe that cutting wages is not the answer. Some businesses try to stay competitive by underpaying staff or relying on zero-hours contracts. That’s not how we operate. We take a long-term view—investing in our team leads to higher staff retention, better service quality, and stronger customer relationships.
Happy employees stick around. They develop their skills, gain experience, and contribute to a workplace culture that values professionalism and teamwork. This, in turn, makes our business stronger and more sustainable. Paying above the living wage is an investment, not a burden.
Looking Ahead
As our Brighton removals business grows, we remain committed to maintaining our values. With the introduction of a second larger Luton van in 2025, we’ll be expanding our team, and every new hire will receive above the living wage. This is a non-negotiable part of how we operate.
We also continue to explore ways to improve job satisfaction and working conditions for our team. Whether that’s through additional training opportunities, better equipment, or creating a supportive work environment, we want to ensure that ESV Removals Ltd is a place where people want to work and feel valued for their efforts.
A Call to Action
We’re proud to stand by our commitment to fair pay, but we know there’s more to be done. We encourage other businesses—especially those in the Brighton removals, transport, and labour-intensive industries—to follow suit. Paying fair wages isn’t just the ethical thing to do; it’s also good business.
If you’re looking for a Brighton removals company that values its staff, provides excellent service, and operates with integrity, we’d love to help. Whether you’re moving home, need furniture assembled, or require a reliable team for transportation, you can count on us to deliver.
For more information on the real living wage, visit the Living Wage Foundation: https://www.livingwagebrighton...
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