First-of-its-kind Research Explores Feasibility of Employer Pays Principle for UK Seasonal Workers 

July 8, 2025 9:07 am, Published by

***Updated on 15 July to include link to the launch webinar held on 8 July***

Published study available here.

EPP webinar recording with Alma Economics can be viewed here.

LONDON, 8 July 2025 | New independent research released today and conducted by Alma Economics and the Centre on Migration, Policy and Society (COMPAS) assesses the feasibility and potential impacts of implementing the Employer Pays Principle (EPP) for seasonal workers in UK horticulture – the first economic analysis of this kind.  

The Employer Pays Principle Feasibility Study, within the Horticulture Value Chain was commissioned and funded jointly by Defra and the Seasonal Worker Scheme Taskforce. The study aims to address the risk of workers incurring debt for their migration costs while considering food security and the sector’s long-term sustainability.  

The EPP states that: “No worker should pay for a job – the costs of recruitment should be borne not by the worker but by the employer”. As defined by the International Labour Organisation, the costs of recruitment include the transportation and visa costs that workers can incur during their migration.  

The research models the economic impacts and assesses the operational feasibility of different ways the EPP could potentially be implemented to determine their likely impact on consumers, retailers, growers and workers. Each option is assessed against its potential impact on: improving worker finances; mitigating the risk of debt due to lawful recruitment-related costs; overcoming short-term cash flow issues faced by scheme operators and growers; facilitating cost sharing across the supply chain and maximising sustainability of the UK horticulture sector. 

Ahead of considering potential next steps, there will be a wide-reaching discussion phase where the research findings will be reviewed and discussed through a series of stakeholder meetings, including retailers, growers, scheme operators, NGOs, worker interest groups, government, and industry bodies. 

Stakeholders welcomed the publication of the study and emphasised the importance of further consultation: 

“The Seasonal Worker Scheme Taskforce has played a critical role in convening diverse perspectives across the horticulture sector. The ALP recognises the importance of careful consultation on the report’s findings and will be engaging with our members to assess the implications for labour providers and growers.  
The phased approach to consultation is essential in ensuring that all voices are heard and that recommendations are grounded in practical, workable solutions. As longstanding advocates for fair recruitment, we are committed to collaborative action to protect workers from exploitation and uphold the principles of ethical labour sourcing across the sector”.  
Joanne Young, Chief Executive, Association of Labour Providers 

“We welcome the feasibility study into applying the Employer Pays Principle to the Seasonal Worker visa route. The UK Seasonal Worker Scheme plays an integral role in delivering fresh produce to our stores, and the report acknowledges the overall worker experience is positive. However, there is still work to be done to ensure all worker rights are protected and mitigate financial risks to workers. It is positive to see Defra has supported this work, alongside the Taskforce, as it shows a shared commitment to protecting workers across the UK food supply chain.  No changes or final decisions have been made and we look forward to continuing discussions with Government, as well as other stakeholders on the best way forward for both workers and businesses. While industry discussions continue, our expectations of suppliers remain unchanged.” Andrew Opie, Director of Food & Sustainability, British Retail Consortium 

“This study, co-funded by DEFRA and the SWS Taskforce study, is a very welcome and timely contribution to the discussion on workers’ rights in British horticulture. It is essential that there is no exploitation across this crucial sector. While there are many responsible employers in UK horticulture, the reality is too many individual cases of exploitation persist, often linked to the costs workers incur just to access these jobs.  We will consult with our company, NGO, and union members on the findings of this report, and are committed to working collaboratively with fellow members of the Taskforce, DEFRA, and other government bodies to prevent exploitation throughout British horticulture.” 
Giles Bolton, Executive Director, Ethical Trading Initiative  

Notes: 

  • According to the GLAA Licensing Standards and Seasonal Worker Scheme rules, in the UK, a recruitment business cannot charge for work finding services, but migrant workers can pay for their visa and travel. 

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