In August 2019,  the BBC reported that employees working at Costa Coffee stores, run by franchise partner Goldex Investment Essex Ltd, were alleging poor working conditions.

This included wage deductions for till discrepancies, training costs, and lateness, and unwritten contracts resulting in workers being underpaid.

Another report followed with more employee concerns, including managers' alleged refusal to pay for sickness or annual leave, employees working outside of contracted hours, and workers not receiving their tips. 

In response, Costa said it would be launching an independent audit into Goldex Investment Essex Ltd. 

Company comments can be found in the articles below.