The government has named businesses that failed to pay some staff the minimum wage.
The official list includes Northern Ireland businesses, racing trainers Alan King and Lucinda Russell, and retailer B&Q.
Those named will have to repay the money owed to workers.
Separately, new figures suggest that wages are trailing inflation.
That is a worrying economic indicator.
Prices are rising faster than pay, leaving workers feeling the squeeze.
The government list and the pay data together underline financial strain for workers.
Officials said enforcement action would follow for employers who broke minimum wage rules.