Why paying a Living Wage matters at Sonne Cleaning Co.

In this short blog, Hannah Rennie, owner from Sonne Cleaning Co. explains why they became a Living Wage Employer, and the benefits they’ve found from being part of the program.

Sonne is a small, woman owned business, operating in the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island. It started back in 2020 when Hannah, the owner, was a single mom with three young children looking for flexible employment. Through this experience she became passionate about providing flexible work for women, and mothers in particular. Over the years they have grown, rebranded, and expanded. They currently have nine team members, including a highly capable operations manager who keeps them organized and on track. They offer eco-friendly cleaning solutions, are bonded, insured, and are committed to providing a living wage to their team.

They have been a Living Wage Employer since 2023. When they rebranded in July 2025 they knew that their commitment to being a Living Wage employer wasn’t going to change. They became a living wage employer because they wanted to ensure their team members were compensated fairly for their hard work.

Since becoming a Living Wage Employer, they’ve noticed real, positive changes in our workplace. By offering a living wage to their team they have been able to retain staff and reduce turnover which has improved the quality of service they offer. Team members stick around which has built an incredible, positive team environment.

Paying a Living Wage doesn’t just benefit our team, it strengthens the local economy and helps families thrive. They’re proud to be part of a movement that’s making a difference across the Comox Valley. They encourage others to join us in becoming Living Wage Employers. Together, we can create a fairer, more sustainable future for everyone.

Certifying as a Living Wage Employer is a voluntary commitment employers make to invest in their communities and local economies. There are now over 500 Living Wage Employers across BC.

The living wage is the hourly amount someone needs to earn to pay for basic essentials like food and rent, it doesn’t include paying off debt or saving for retirement. The Living Wage for the Comox Valley is now $25.35 an hour.

Find out more about Sonne Cleaning Co. on their website: https://www.sonnecleaningco.com/