Under Armour Raises Wages for Hourly Workers to $15

Under Armour announced that it's raising wages for hourly retail workers to $15 in the United States and Canada. As a result of the move, more than 8,000 part-time and full-time employees — approximately 90 percent of Under Armour's retail and distribution center workforce — will see a compensation increase. The increases, which could be as much as 50 percent for some workers, will be effective June 6.

Under Armour also said it has more than 3,000 roles currently open in its stores and distribution centers that it's looking to fill. These positions will all start at the new wage, the company said.

Total Retail's Take: Under Armour said its pay increase marks the first of a number of steps the company will take to maintain and attract talent in the months ahead. Over the coming year, Under Armour will implement additional measures to support employees on their career journeys through important initiatives like increased compensation, learning and development, and a new incentive plan for hourly workers.

The announcement comes as retailers and restaurant operators face a significant labor crunch. Fewer people than expected are returning to the workforce, and many businesses are struggling to meet increased consumer demand. Indeed, the hiring announcements that usually arrive in the spring and summer months have been accompanied this year by news of wage hikes, referral and retention bonuses, and other enhanced benefits. For example, Chipotle Mexican Grill said its average wage per hour would be $15 by the end of June. And McDonald’s earlier this month announced it is raising the hourly wages for its U.S. company-owned restaurants, as the fast-food chain looks to hire 10,000 workers for those locations.