Hamleys over work and underpay their staff, keeping them on lower hour contracts than they work! - Entertainer Hamleys Employee Review

2.0
May 16, 2014
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

As a member of the Events Team I got to dress up like a princess or a pirate and run fun parties with children.

Cons

These parties became less fun when I worked a "sleepover" (7pm - 10am) for NO extra hourly rate (depsite unsociable hours.) Also over Christmas we were expected to be in for 7.30am to run the breakfast with santa club yet rarely allowed to leave before 5pm for no over time. (unpaid) Lunches were often cut short by work requirements I was paid a pittance : £6.50ish an hour, despite being an entertainer and having to look after high priority guests. Entertainers in other industries get at least £20 ph! I was on a 3 day a week contract but expected to work 5 days a week which I willingly did. However when I took a weeks holiday, I was only paid my contractual 3 days. Also at Christmas when I ask to work my contractual days over the Christmas week, I was told I had to work 5 ! I think somehow they got the best of both worlds there. During winter I had to stand outside of the front of the store dressed as a Doll (fine) - However I was left outside the store for periods longer than 1 hour in temperatures of 0 degrees or colder with no thermal clothing provided. If we weren't cheery enough in the above conditions we were told off.

Explore other reviews about Hamleys

5.0
Dec 5, 2016
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

You're working in a massive toy shop, so it's an incredibly lively atmosphere, to start! Great work environment in the office alongside passionate people.

Cons

Your schedule can be unclear at times.

4.0
Aug 3, 2015
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

fun, benefits, discounted for staff

Cons

under pressure some time, little room for growth

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