Santander becomes latest to sign up to Scottish Business Pledge

Spanish-based banking giant Santander has been announced as the 200th employer to commit to the Scottish Business Pledge to fair employment practices.

Cabinet Secretary for Fair Work, Skills and Training Roseanna Cunningham made the announcement at the firm’s Glasgow headquarters where she met staff benefitting from their commitment to fair work principles, which are also aimed at boosting productivity and competitiveness.

Ms Cunningham said: “This is a significant landmark in our drive to promote fairer working environments for Scottish employees and tackle low pay and productivity – 200 signees in just nine months is a huge achievement.

“I am particularly pleased that such a large business, with more than 2,000 employees in Scotland, has made this commitment, setting a good example to other firms of its kind around the country.

“While fairer working practices will benefit employees, employers themselves stand to benefit from increased productivity, improved morale and lower absence rates. Santander are committed to all nine elements of the Pledge, which is great news for all concerned.

“We are determined to increase economic growth by addressing inequalities – in other words, growing the economy in a fair way for all people in Scotland. It is clear that a growing number of businesses share our vision of an innovative, entrepreneurial country growing sustainably.”

Nathan Bostock, CEO, Santander UK said: “Santander is delighted to support the Scottish Business Pledge. As a scale challenger, Santander is not only increasing competition and choice in banking – we’re also committed to making a difference to the communities in which we operate by doing business responsibly.”