Shift Patterns, Pay Premia and Benefits 2026
03.08.2026
Make UK’s benchmarking reports are designed to give HR professionals in manufacturing clear, practical insights into the pay, working patterns and benefits shaping the sector.
The Shift Patterns, Pay Premia and Benefits 2026 report provides up to date benchmarks on how manufacturers reward employees working different hours and taking on additional responsibilities. It covers overtime and Bank Holiday payments, shift allowances, standby and call-out arrangements, and payments for roles such as First Aiders and Mental Health First Aiders.
This year’s report also examines the shift patterns currently used across manufacturing and the premia employers offer for day, night and continuous working. The findings help businesses compare their own arrangements with others across the sector and examine whether their approach remains competitive.
Alongside pay and working patterns, the report looks at how manufacturers support employees through flexible working, annual leave, sick pay, family leave and wider health and wellbeing benefits. It also considers how employers currently manage notice and compensation for cancelled or postponed shifts ahead of new employment rights expected to come into force in 2027.
Inside this year’s report:
- Overtime and Bank Holiday payments
- Shift patterns and pay premia
- Compensation for cancelled and postponed shifts
- Standby and call-out arrangements
- Flexible working, leave and employee benefits