Transformations in Polish businesses: companies opt for benefits instead of pay raises

In the face of growing inflation, companies in Poland are increasingly turning to offering employees additional benefits instead of traditional pay raises. It is forecasted that expenditures on employee food benefits in the country will rise to almost two billion PLN this year, a result of the growing interest in these solutions, especially in the food category.

This trend has been particularly noticeable since the pandemic, and the high level of inflation only amplifies this phenomenon. Companies realize that offering additional benefits, especially related to food, positively influences how employees perceive the employer. It also allows employees to reduce their food expenses, which becomes a crucial component in times of inflation.

Various food-related perks bring benefits to both employees, enabling them to save, and employers, who can diversify benefits not only through salary increases but also through attractive perks. According to data from Sodexo Benefits and Rewards Services Polska, expenditures on food benefits for employees in Poland are expected to increase by an impressive 40% this year.

An additional incentive for companies to offer food benefits is the change in regulations from September, which increases the exemption amount from ZUS contributions for meal subsidies for employees from 300 to 450 PLN per month. This modification brings financial benefits to both employees and employers, driving the development of this trend in the Polish business environment.

For example, an interesting solution is the InnBenefits card, opening up new perspectives for benefits for both employers and employees. The InnBenefits card is an innovative approach to rewarding employees, allowing companies to save while simultaneously increasing employee satisfaction. The added value for employers includes no additional ZUS contributions and full control over the functioning of the card. Employers can easily supplement bonuses for employees, adjusting them to the company’s current needs. These cards also offer numerous benefits for employees, such as discounts when paying by card or convenient access to the current account balance and transaction history.