In response to mounting pressure from labor advocates, Waffle House has announced plans to increase pay for its employees across the United States. In a video message to employees, Waffle House CEO, Joe Rogers III, shared the news that base pay would be raised to at least $3 per hour in June. Over the next five years, the hourly wage will gradually rise to at least $5.25 by June 2026.

It is important to note that the base pay mentioned does not include workers' tips. Additionally, wages may be higher in certain states depending on the prevailing minimum wage laws. Rogers assured employees that the wage increases will be funded by slightly higher menu prices.

To further incentivize employee loyalty, Waffle House will introduce tenure bonuses and premiums for those working late shifts. These measures aim to acknowledge the dedication and commitment of long-standing staff members and those working during less desirable hours.

While Waffle House did not confirm the wage increase when contacted by The Associated Press, the Union of Southern Service Workers, a labor group affiliated with the Service Employees International Union, provided a link to the video message, validating the announcement.

Over the past year, the Union of Southern Service Workers has staged strikes at multiple Waffle House locations, urging for higher pay, enhanced restaurant security, and an end to the company's practice of deducting $3.15 per day from workers' paychecks for meals, regardless of whether they actually consume while on the job. The labor group has also called on the Department of Labor to investigate the meal deductions.

Katie Giede, a Waffle House server based in Atlanta, expressed her satisfaction with the wage increase, although she aspires for wages to reach $25 per hour. Giede emphasized the ongoing determination of employees and their commitment to continue organizing and advocating until their demands are met.

With approximately 2,000 restaurant locations primarily in the South and Midwest regions of the country, Waffle House has a significant workforce affected by these changes. This pay increase represents a notable step forward for the company in addressing the concerns raised by labor activists.

As Waffle House takes this stride in its wage policies, it remains to be seen how these adjustments will impact the overall dynamics within the company. The plight for fair wages and better working conditions continues as employees strive for improvements across the restaurant industry.