The 80pp report surveyed 31 occupations, from supervisors, production directors and buyers to managing directors, within 329 BPIF/SPEF member companies in the UK.

"It enables our members to see where their staff are in relation to earnings, and is particularly useful if they are looking to take on new employees," said BPIF head of corporate and external affairs, Cicely Brown.

The survey showed that the average basic salary excluding commissions and bonus payments also rose by 5%, to 29,684.

Comprehensive information on salaries paid and other benefits such as performance and profit-related pay, pensions and health insurance are also included in the survey.

The survey found that 36% of companies paid bonuses on an ad hoc basis. The average paid holiday for employees was 26 days.

The report is issued free to all responding BPIF and SPEF members.

Non-participating members of both organisations can obtain a copy of the report for 250. It is also available to non-members for 500.

Contact: Kyle Jardine on 020 7915 8317 or e-mail kyle.jardine@bpif.org.uk.