Nearly 200 UK employers were named and shamed by the government today for underpaying more than 9,000 minimum wage workers by 1.1 million.

The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy also fined the employers a total of £1.3 million in penalties for breaking minimum wage laws. The government also recovered back pay for the 9,200 workers.

Among the employers at the top of the list included restaurant chain Wagamama, which failed to pay £133,212 to 2,630 workers.

The naming and shaming comes ahead of the next Living Wage rise on 1 April which will see the wage rise from £7.50 to £7.83 an hour. Apprentices under the age of 19 and those in the first year of their apprenticeship will see a record 5.7% rise.

“Today’s naming round serves as a sharp reminder to employers to get their house in order ahead of minimum wage rate rises on 1 April,” Business Minister Andrew Griffiths said.

“The world of work is changing and we have set out our plans to give millions of workers enhanced rights to ensure everyone is paid and treated fairly in the workplace. There are no excuses for short-changing workers. This is an absolute red line for this government and employers who cross it will get caught - not only are they forced to pay back every penny but they are also fined up to 200% of wages owed,” Griffiths said.

Bryan Sanderson, Chairman of the Low Pay Commission (LPC), also commented, “As the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage rates rise on 1 April, it is vital that workers understand their rights, and employers their obligations. The Low Pay Commission is pleased to see the government maintaining the momentum of its minimum wage enforcement.”

Later this month the Department will launch a campaign to raise awareness of the new rates and encourage workers to speak to their employer if they think they are being underpaid.

Last month, the government published its ‘Good Work Plan’ which aims to increase the rights and protections of workers.

For the full list of employers who were named and shamed, click here.