North Acton Square has become the UK’s first Living Wage Zone, recognising its commitment to fair pay across all businesses on the site.
Every business on the square is accredited as a Living Wage employer, paying their staff at least the London Living Wage, which is calculated based on what is needed to cover the real cost of living.
Over the last year, North Acton Square has been transformed from a former petrol station into a busy public square, with 6 retail units and a packed programme of markets, live music, and film and sports screenings over the summer.
Johnny Brewin director of The Republic Community Projects, the organisation behind North Acton Square is an accredited London Living Wage employer. He’s committed to creating opportunities for local people and supporting the community.
Johnny has played a key role in developing the square and securing its Living Wage Zone status.
He said: “We are very proud that North Acton Square is the UK’s first Living Wage Zone.
“The square was created as an affordable place for small businesses, makers, and community organisations, so it feels entirely appropriate that it should also champion fair pay. London is an expensive place to live.
“So many people in the area work hard but do not always receive the recognition or security they deserve. I hope the zone will make fair pay visible, and will begin conversations between businesses, workers, and the wider community about the kind of local economy we want to create.”
At yesterday’s launch event, Council leader Peter Mason spoke about the importance of this London Living Wage milestone, and the ambition to extend Living Wage accreditation even further across the borough.
This latest recognition follows a series of London Living Wage successes across the borough. In 2024 it became a Living Wage Place, and there are now more than 150 accredited employers, which between them employ more than 16,000 workers who are all paid at least the London Living Wage.
Employers that commit to paying the Living Wage can benefit from improved recruitment, stronger staff retention, greater productivity, and improved employee wellbeing.
Councillor Kamaljit Nagpal, the council’s cabinet member for decent living incomes said: “The first Living Wage Zone in the country being established in the borough highlights the positive impact that fair pay can have on communities. This achievement ensures residents and local workers can have happier, more comfortable lives by increasing their household incomes.
“North Acton Square demonstrates how fair pay can be integrated into regeneration and business growth, helping to create sustainable employment opportunities and stronger communities.”
Lydia Ephraim, senior project manager at Living Wage Foundation, said: “The Zone accreditation goes further, with a commitment that everyone working on the site, whether directly or as a third party, will be paid at least the London Living Wage, now and in the future.”
