3.6pc pay hike set for Citybus

Stacy Shi

Citybus has announced a 3.6-percent pay rise for all its staff.

Additionally, full-time drivers and maintenance personnel will see a minimum salary increase of HK$810 per month, resulting in an average 3.86-percent pay rise among all employees.

The pay hike come despite the company saying in a statement that it faced ongoing challenges due to inflationary pressures, such as rising wage, fuel and supply chain costs, as well as the fact that patronage and revenue have yet to reach pre-pandemic levels.

Its management said Citybus recognizes staff as the company's most valuable asset and has decided to enhance the overall remuneration package.

Notably, the company has introduced a "children's wedding leave" policy, allowing staff to celebrate this important milestone with their families.

"The improved compensation package aims to express the company's ongoing appreciation for the tireless efforts of its colleagues, particularly in delivering a successful franchise merger, as well as to commemorate the company's 45th anniversary," Citybus said.

"We will continue to focus on further improving the overall working facilities and work with our colleagues to develop new working arrangements, duties, and rosters."

The pay increase for frontline staff will take effect on September 1, while other employees will receive the raise starting January, based on their annual performance reviews.

Citybus Limited Employees Union had initially proposed a 4.25-percent pay rise, but the company rejected this and offered a 3.5-percent increase.

The union revised its request to 4 percent and then to 3.65 percent, before the company finally agreed to a 3.6-percent increase in remuneration.

The union expects Citybus to continue its efforts to enhance the working environment and treatment of employees, with the goal of ensuring long-term organizational development and the retention of skilled personnel.

"While there is a slight discrepancy between the union's proposal and the actual increase rate, the union hopes that Citybus will share the benefits of its improved profitability with its employees in the future."