The Economy Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 30 June 2026 to discuss the progress of Manchester's economic strategy, Investing in Success, and the city's efforts to promote the Real Living Wage. The committee also reviewed the council's work programme and key upcoming decisions.

Investing in Success Progress Update

The committee received an update on Manchester's Economic Strategy, Investing in Success, which aims to drive inclusive growth, nurture thriving sectors, develop world-class infrastructure and talent, transition to a zero-carbon economy, and include more people in economic opportunity. Councillor Garry Bridges, Deputy Leader (Statutory), highlighted the council's commitment to creating a more prosperous city where residents earn more and have career opportunities. The report detailed the significant economic growth in Greater Manchester, exceeding £100 billion GVA annually, and acknowledged that while this growth is positive, many residents remain disconnected from its benefits.

Discussions focused on the widening gap between economic growth (GVA) and resident disposable income, the potential for partnership working with the research and development industry, and ensuring economic prosperity is felt throughout the city, not just in the centre. Concerns were raised about the talent pool available for highly-skilled jobs and the adequacy of transport connectivity to employment opportunities. The effectiveness of work clubs in addressing unemployment and the number of jobs created through inward investment filled by Manchester residents were also questioned.

Officers explained the various initiatives in place to support residents into work, including the WorkWell programme and work clubs, and highlighted the role of the Manchester Adult Education Service (MAES). The committee was informed about efforts to rebalance national expenditure on research and development and the ongoing work to improve public transport, including night buses and proposed Metrolink and rail service enhancements. The importance of social value from development was also discussed, with a new social value framework being implemented.

The committee made several requests for further information:

• To note the report on Investing in Success.
• To request further detail on transport connectivity and its support for employment opportunities.
• To request further detail on support for young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET).
• To request further detail on barriers to apprenticeships.
• To request a report on graduate retention and the contribution of higher education institutions to the city's economy.

Living Wage Update and Analysis of Median Pay in Manchester

The committee reviewed the progress of Manchester as a Living Wage City and the work of the Manchester Action Group in promoting the Real Living Wage (RLW). The report indicated a significant increase in accredited employers and employees working for Living Wage employers between 2022 and 2025. The Real Living Wage is an independently calculated rate reflecting the actual cost of living, distinct from the government-set National Living Wage.

Key discussion points included the barriers employers face in paying the RLW, particularly for small businesses in the retail, hospitality, and care sectors. The committee sought clarification on the narrowing gap between employee and resident median earnings, whether casual labour pay was factored into data, and the variability of pay. Questions were also raised about how the gender pay gap is measured for smaller businesses and the number of young people paid the RLW.

A video from Odd Arts, a local charity, was shown, explaining their decision to become a Real Living Wage employer. Officers reported that median pay for those working in Manchester had increased, and resident median earnings had also risen. The gender pay gap was noted to be at its lowest point and below national averages.

The committee made the following decisions:

• To note the report.
• To recommend that officers approach the Living Wage Foundation with the suggestion of measuring how many young people are earning the Real Living Wage.

Overview Report

The committee considered an overview report detailing key decisions within its remit, responses to previous recommendations, and the committee's work programme. Members requested that the development of the new Digital Strategy be included in the September agenda and that a report on the economic impact of events be added to the work programme.

The committee decided to note the report and agree the work programme, incorporating the suggested additions.