Supermarket giant Aldi has revealed a major new investment in its workforce, pledging millions to increase pay and improve benefits for its employees across the United Kingdom.
Details of the Pay Increase
The retailer confirmed it will invest a substantial £36 million into pay and benefits for its team. The most immediate change will see a pay rise for store assistants, effective from 1 March 2026.
From that date, the starting pay for Aldi store assistants will increase to £13.35 per hour across the country. For those working within the M25 London orbital motorway, the rate will be even higher, rising to £14.71 per hour.
This move is particularly significant as it precedes the government's scheduled increase to the national minimum wage in April. As a result, many Aldi employees will find themselves earning 64p more per hour than the upcoming statutory minimum.
Enhanced Benefits for a 45,000-Strong Team
The pay rise is just one part of a broader package designed to support Aldi's over 45,000 UK employees. In a notable enhancement to family-friendly policies, the company has announced it will extend its maternity pay offer.
Eligible staff will now receive 26 weeks of maternity pay at full pay, a significant benefit that offers greater financial security for new parents.
The supermarket also confirmed pay increases for store apprentices, ensuring those on training schemes similarly benefit from the investment. Furthermore, Aldi highlighted its unique position as the only UK supermarket to offer paid breaks to all in-store staff.
This perk, often overlooked, is valued at up to £1,470 annually for each qualifying employee, representing a considerable addition to their overall remuneration.
Context and Industry Impact
This announcement marks another step in Aldi's strategy to position itself as a leading employer in the competitive retail sector. By implementing the pay rise ahead of the national change, the company seeks to demonstrate its commitment to its workforce proactively.
The substantial financial commitment of £36 million underscores the scale of the supermarket's investment in its people. Such moves are closely watched within the industry, often influencing pay and benefits standards for retail workers nationwide.
For thousands of Aldi employees, the changes coming into effect on March 1 will mean a direct and welcome boost to their income, alongside more comprehensive support for major life events like starting a family.
