shopretailcustomerpaygettyimages-831390502.jpg Research from Restaurant Association members shows just 40% of hospitality employers believe they are able to absorb costs when minimum wage levels increase. Photo: Getty ImagesBusinesses say they will have to pass costs on to consumers now that the minimum wage has increased for the second time since the Labour-led Government took power. From today, the minimum wage will be raised to $17.70 per hour, up $1.20 from $16.50. cash_money_getty.jpg Competition in the sector meant operators in the industry were wary to increase menu prices but suppliers also increased their prices when hikes came into effect. Photo: Getty ImagesThe cafe which employs around 30 staff, of which about six are on minimum wage, is in the process of increasing menu prices by $1 per item to offset wage hikes, he said.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 31, 2019 19:18 UTC