El Corte Ingles increased by +3.9% its staff’s average salary
What: Strong financial results have enabled El Corte Inglés to boost salaries, reduce the gender pay gap to 3.2%, and reinforce its commitment to equality, professional development, and responsible supply chain management.
Why it is important: The company’s progress highlights the link between business performance, social responsibility, and talent retention in a competitive retail environment.
El Corte Inglés has reported a 3.9% increase in average employee remuneration, raising the average salary to EUR 25,275, with the most significant gains seen among lower and technical staff. The company’s commitment to wage equality is reflected in a historic low gender pay gap of 3.2% in Spain and near parity in Portugal, supported by annual reviews and corrective measures. These advances are closely tied to the group’s strong financial performance, with sales reaching EUR 16.7 billion, EBITDA up 11.9% to EUR 1.2 billion, and net profit rising 6.7% to EUR 512 million. Debt reduction and improved operational efficiency have further strengthened the company’s position. El Corte Inglés’s strategic plan emphasizes not only competitive pay but also diversity, professional development, and responsible supply chain management, aligning with broader ESG trends and reinforcing its reputation as one of Spain’s leading employers.
IADS Notes: El Corte Inglés’s 3.9% increase in average employee remuneration and ongoing progress in wage equality are closely linked to its robust financial performance and strategic transformation. As detailed by Press Release (June 2025), the group achieved EUR 16.7 billion in sales, an 11.9% EBITDA increase, and significant debt reduction, validating the effectiveness of its operational and digital investments. Economia Digital (June 2025) highlights the company’s 2025-2030 strategic plan, developed with McKinsey, which prioritizes performance-based incentives, cost optimization, and digital transformation. Fashion Network (November 2024) reports on profit growth and seasonal hiring, while Revista for Retail (September 2024) underscores El Corte Inglés’s strong corporate reputation and commitment to sustainability. El Pais (September 2024) provides additional context on the group’s long-term strategy and adaptation to new retail realities. Together, these sources illustrate how El Corte Inglés is leveraging business success to improve employee conditions, reinforce diversity and inclusion, and align with evolving ESG standards in the retail sector.
