The furlough scheme has been a lifeline for many businesses during the pandemic. Under the scheme, employees receive 80% of wages for hours not worked, funded by the government.
Since the phased reopening of the economy in April last month, some businesses have been able to repay some, or all of the money claimed through the furlough scheme.
Big-name brands such as Primark, Halfords and Asos are among some of the businesses that have reportedly returned millions in furlough money.
It is reported that more than 13,000 businesses have made repayments for all or some of their furlough grants.
The Mirror has provided a breakdown of some of the big-name brands that have allegedly returned furlough money:
- Halfords – £10.7m
- Asos – £1.8m
- Balfour Beatty – £19m
- ScS – £1.3m
- Serco – £3m
- Barratt – £27m
- Primark – £121m
From July, furlough rules will be changing with employers being required to contribute more towards their employee’s wages. The government will pay 70% of wages up to £2,187.50 while employers will contribute 10%. From August employers will be expected to contribute 20%.
