At HR Evolve, we view the upcoming Progressive Wage Model (PWM) changes not just as a regulatory shift — but as a strategic inflection point for retail businesses in Singapore.
Starting September 1, 2025, over 53,000 retail workers will benefit from structured wage increases under the PWM, according to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), which is leading this initiative to uplift lower-wage workers and strengthen the retail workforce (Ministry of Manpower, 2025). For employers, it presents both a challenge and a unique opportunity to evolve.
📊 Wage Adjustments — What Employers Must Prepare For
The PWM will introduce annual wage increases from 2025 to 2027, with a mid-point review in 2026, according to NTUC Singapore (NTUC Singapore, 2025). Employers must be ready to adjust payroll structures accordingly:
| Job Role | 2024 Wage | 2025 Wage | 2026 Wage | 2027 Wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Retail Assistant / Cashier | S$2,175 | S$2,305 | S$2,435 | S$2,565 |
| Senior Cashier / Assistant | S$2,395 | S$2,535 | S$2,680 | S$2,820 |
| Assistant Retail Supervisor | S$2,635 | S$2,790 | S$2,950 | S$3,100 |
Part-time hourly wages will also increase proportionally, as reported by Channel News Asia (Channel News Asia, 2025), which could have a significant impact on workforce budgets and planning.
🛍️ The Retail Landscape Is Shifting — HR Evolve Keeps You Ahead
Retailers are facing:
- Declining foot traffic due to e-commerce (Channel News Asia, 2025)
- Rising manpower costs and talent shortages (MOM, 2025)
- The upcoming RTS Link to Johor Bahru, which may shift consumer spending (Channel News Asia, 2025)
HR Evolve helps businesses stay agile and competitive through:
- Workforce restructuring and manpower planning
- Payroll systems aligned with PWM standards
- Recruitment of skilled retail talent
- Full compliance with MOM regulations
We don’t just support compliance — we help you build a resilient, future-ready workforce.
🎓 Upskill with Grants
The PWM now includes WSQ, ITE, polytechnic, and industry certifications, according to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM, 2025). HR Evolve helps you tap Career Conversion Programme (CCP) and Company Training Committee (CTC) grants to train staff affordably.
đź’° Maximize Wage Support
The Progressive Wage Credit Scheme (PWCS) offers up to 40% co-funding in 2025 and 20% in 2026, according to MOM (MOM, 2025). We handle eligibility checks, claims, and wage alignment — so you get every dollar.
🚀 Our Commitment to Retail Employers
At HR Evolve, we specialize in turning policy changes into business growth. Our tailored HR solutions are built for retail businesses navigating transformation.
We offer:
- Subscription-based recruitment for ongoing hiring needs
- Strategic HR consulting to future-proof operations
- End-to-end support for PWM compliance and workforce development
📢 Ready to Future-Proof Your Retail Workforce?
Let HR Evolve be your strategic partner in navigating wage reforms, unlocking government support, and building a resilient HR framework.
Sources: Channel News Asia, Ministry of Manpower, NTUC Singapore
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