The Business New workers' rights - business winner or killer?
Apr 3, 2026
Brian Whiting, operator of five Kent pubs, talks hospitality realities, staffing strains and cost pressures on small operators. Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, outlines SME impacts and practical effects of the new Employment Rights Act. They discuss sick pay, parental leave, zero-hours consultations, automation in hospitality and how businesses might adapt to rising costs.
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Staged Workers Rights Overhaul Coming In Stages
- The Employment Rights Act is a staged, complex package with immediate and future changes affecting many small businesses.
- Key April changes include statutory sick pay from day one and lowering unfair dismissal qualifying period from two years to six months after negotiation.
Zero Hours Reform Will Be Sector Specific
- Zero-hours contracts are under consultation and may be restricted so employers must consider sector-specific consequences.
- Shevaun warns wholesale removal of zero-hours guarantees (minimum hours) would cripple businesses like theatres and seasonal employers.
Pub Owner Describes Real Cost Shock On Part Time Staff
- Brian Whiting runs five Kent pubs employing ~180 people and says smaller operators feel the squeeze more than large chains.
- He cites national insurance threshold change and rising minimum wage as immediate, painful cost increases for part-time young staff.