Pension schemes and health care are among key benefits a firm can offer, but cheaper fringe benefits may also motivate a workforce.
More companies are finding that arranging discounts on consumer goods and leisure activities is one way of keeping staff happy.
Martyn Phillips of human resources consultancy Towers Perrin says: “The number of employers planning group discounts on goods and services for staff almost doubled between 1998 and 2000. Group discounts are a low-cost option.”
Tesco introduced its Extra Choices Club last October. Club members pay a monthly fee of 25 pence (about 29 cents), which allows them substantial discounts on a range of products:
15 per cent off activity days from hot-air balloon trips to driving a tank.
– 75 percent off health-club fees.
– Up to 50 percent off theater tickets.
– More than 32 percent off car servicing.
