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Performance. Features. Ratings.

Compare the Top 10 Workplace Pensions

Find out how Penfold delivers standout fund performance, first-class support, and a seamless user experience – all at no cost to your business.

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A collection of six logos arranged in a circular layout on a light gradient background. The logos include: Penfold, Aviva, Cushon, Royal London, Nest, Scottish Widows, and Smart Pension

A workplace pension is the key to your business’s success

Running a workplace pension scheme isn’t just about meeting legal obligations – it’s a strategic decision that can set your business apart. The right pension scheme can streamline admin, simplify compliance, and even help you attract and retain top talent.

For employers, factors like ongoing support, payroll integrations, and fund performance are critical when choosing a provider. And while business needs are important, the best workplace pensions also deliver an exceptional experience for employees, empowering them to plan for a comfortable later life.

In the UK, providers like Nest, The People’s Pension, and Aviva are well-known names. But what if you’re looking for a provider that not only supports your business goals but also offers a modern, engaging experience for your employees?

We’ve compared Penfold, Nest, Smart Pension, and other leading providers to help you find the best workplace pension for your business.

A composite image showing a laptop, a smartphone, and two people working together in an office. The laptop screen displays an employee management interface titled “Penfold” with a list of employees under “Greedy Pig Inc.” The smartphone screen shows a Penfold app interface with account balance details. In the background, a smiling man in a yellow sweater works on a laptop while a woman in a green sweater stands beside him holding a mug. The setting is a modern office with warm lighting.

Which workplace pension has the best fund performance?

Fund performance plays a crucial role in growing your pension value over time. Choosing a provider with strong returns can make a significant difference to your employees’ financial future.

This chart compares the gross and net returns of leading workplace pension providers, on an annualised basis in 5 year period to 30th September 2024, helping you evaluate their performance.

Past performance is not indicative of future returns. The value of investments can rise and fall and you may get back less than you put in.

A bar chart comparing gross and net returns (%) for different pension providers: Penfold, Nest, Cushon (Sustainable Growth), Smart Pension, Scottish Widows, Aviva (My Future Focus), People’s Pension, Royal London (Default), Standard Life (Sustainable M. Asset), and NOW: Pensions. Penfold shows the highest returns (7.6% gross, 6.8% net), while NOW: Pensions has the lowest (3.6% gross, 3.2% net).

Penfold’s returns are based on our default Standard Lifetime plan. Competitor returns are based their default plans. Returns are based on data collected by investment advisors DWA from a variety of sources including individual providers and data published on Morningstar. DWA have estimated the Gross Returns based on available information for a member with a typical pot size of £10,000 and an average salary of £30,000. DWA have estimated the Net Returns net of all costs and charges based on available information for a member with a typical pot size of £10,000 and an average salary of £30,000.

Actual returns may vary depending on a variety of factors including specific costs negotiated by a member's employer, actual pot size and actual salary. Where possible we have used actual return series available, though in assumptions have been made based on the underlying funds because of poor data availability and this may also result in some variance. The effect of charges have been applied to the return series on a monthly basis via a subtraction/addition of the proportionate amount, this may create small discrepancies with actual experience depending on charging structure. DWA are happy to correct any discrepancies should evidence be provided.

Verdict: Penfold leads in workplace pension fund performance

With high gross and net returns, Penfold’s default fund helps savers’ contributions grow efficiently over time.

For employers, offering a pension scheme with strong returns isn’t just about employee satisfaction; it’s about setting your team up for long-term success. With Penfold, you can feel confident that your employees’ savings are working as hard as they do.

Which workplace pension is best for businesses?

When choosing a workplace pension for your company, it’s essential to ensure it aligns with your needs for compliance, ease of setup, and support. The right pension provider should not only simplify administration but also enhance your employees’ financial well-being.

The table below compares some of the leading workplace pension providers in the UK, factoring in ratings from Trustpilot and Defaqto, alongside key features for businesses like dedicated account management, payroll integrations, and compliance support.

Verdict: Penfold excels among workplace pensions for businesses

This comparison highlights Penfold’s strong position for businesses. With top-tier Defaqto and Trustpilot ratings, Penfold goes above and beyond by providing features like managed onboarding, compliance support, and payroll integrations at no cost to businesses. While other providers may charge setup fees or admin fees, Penfold offers value without compromise.

For businesses, the right pension isn’t just about meeting obligations; it’s about choosing a partner that supports growth and removes unnecessary admin stress. Penfold ensures that your pension scheme works for your business as much as it does for your team.

Which workplace pension is best for employees?

The best workplace pension doesn’t just meet business needs; it should also provide employees with tools and resources to plan their financial future confidently. Features like app access, sustainable investment funds, and retirement forecasting can make a world of difference.

This table showcases how top providers support employees with features like financial well-being programs, savings nudges, and diverse investment options.

Verdict: Penfold stands out as a workplace pension employees trust

Penfold shines with its wide range of features designed to empower savers. With 10 investment funds, including sustainable and Sharia-compliant options, a user-friendly app, and features like retirement forecasting and savings nudges, Penfold equips employees to take control of their future.

Employee pensions are about more than just compliance. They’re about helping your team feel secure and informed. Penfold’s thoughtful interface and focus on well-being make it a standout choice for employers looking to support their staff’s financial goals.

Setting a new standard for workplace pensions

In this comparison, the clear choice is Penfold. With a seamless setup process, top-tier ratings, business-friendly features like payroll integration and compliance support, and an employee experience that empowers savers, Penfold sets a new standard for workplace pensions.

Whether you’re looking to simplify admin, attract and retain top talent, or provide your employees with the tools to plan for a comfortable later life, Penfold has everything you need in one modern, easy-to-use platform.

No matter which provider you choose, it’s essential to review your workplace pension regularly to ensure it continues to meet the needs of your business and employees. Staying informed about updates to pension regulations and employee expectations will help keep your scheme running smoothly, delivering crucial value.

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Penfold vs. our competitors

Penfold vs. Nest

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Penfold vs. Smart Pension

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Penfold vs. Cushon

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Penfold vs. NOW: Pensions

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Penfold vs. The People’s Pension

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Penfold vs. Aviva

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Penfold vs. Royal London

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Penfold vs. Scottish Widows

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Choose the Best Workplace Pension Provider

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