From April 1, Store Assistants at Aldi's UK branches began earning £13.50 per hour nationally, while those within the M25 received £14.88. These rates increase to £14.47 and £15.20 respectively based on length of service.
The pay change benefits 28,000 hourly-paid store employees and represents the second pay increase for Aldi staff in 2026, following January’s improved rates and extended maternity pay to 26 weeks at full pay. According to the retailer, which operates more than 1,050 stores in the UK, the changes amount to a £42 million investment in its workforce this year.
Pay rise and competitor response
Aldi stated that its new rates surpass those of all its rivals and that it remains the only major supermarket to offer paid breaks to all staff, a perk worth approximately £1,500 per year to the average store employee.
Aldi UK and Ireland CEO Giles Hurley said: "Our colleagues work incredibly hard to deliver exceptional value for our customers, and we're rewarding that dedication with the highest pay in the sector." He added: "We've invested over £42 million in colleague pay this year because we know that every single member of Team Aldi is fundamental to our success and deserve nothing less."
Broader retail wage increases
Aldi was not alone in raising pay. Fellow German supermarket Lidl increased its entry-level national base rate to £13.45 at the end of March, while M&S, Sainsbury's, and Tesco also raised wages.
The pay rise coincided with the National Living Wage (for those aged 21 and over) rising to £12.71, and the National Minimum Wage for 18 to 20 year olds increasing to £10.85. Apprentices and those under 18 began receiving a minimum of £8 per hour.
