Cereal giant Kellogg’s is to give all 1,600 of its non-executive office and factory-based staff one extra week’s pay this Christmas, despite the current economic climate.

Employees will receive an extra £600 each on average in their December pay packets. The perk has been running at the firm for 25 years.

Karen Meehan, Kellogg’s vice president of HR, said: “The 53rd week’s pay is a great scheme that our employees really value, particularly during the festive season. This is part of a reward package Kellogg’s offers to employees which also includes flexible benefits, pension and share purchase plans.”

Sara Collie, a Kellogg’s employee, said: “I am worried about Christmas this year in the current climate so this extra money couldn’t come at a better time.”