Low Pay Commission: Updated Remit and NLW Estimates for April 2026

Government has now published the Low Pay Commission’s (LPC) remit for the National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW) rates that will apply from April 2026. The remit remains broadly consistent with last year’s, reaffirming Government’s commitment to ensuring the NLW does not fall below two-thirds of UK median earnings for workers aged 21 and over, and reinstating its commitment to review the 18 to 20-year-old rate with a view to remove it – subject to LPC’s consultation and recommendations.

As in previous years, the remit requires the LPC’s consider a wide range of economic factors, including inflation forecasts, cost of living, labour market impacts, business competitiveness, and broader macroeconomic conditions.

Updated NLW Estimates

Following up on the publication of the remit earlier this morning, the LPC has updated its central estimate for April 2026, which is now £12.71, an increase of 4.1%, with a projected range of £12.55 to £12.86.

These figures are higher than those published alongside the May consultation, which had a central estimate of £12.65 and a range of £12.50 to £12.80. LPC attributes this revision to  stronger-than-expected wage growth so far this year and improved forecasts for 2025. 

BRC Engagement and Evidence Submission

In mid-July, the BRC gave oral and written evidence to the LPC, informed by conversations with retailers and the findings of the Q1.2025 HR Benchmark. Our submission highlighted the cost pressures facing the sector and urged the LPC to take a balanced approach that supports both workers and business sustainability. Follow this link to read a summary of BRC’s written submission.