Discount supermarket giant Aldi has confirmed a significant pay increase for its store-based workforce, set to take effect well before the government's national minimum wage rise in April.
Pay Boost Details and National Context
From 1 March 2026, hourly rates for Aldi store assistants will rise by 33p, moving from £13.02 to £13.35. This proactive move means thousands of employees will benefit over a month before the statutory rate increases by 50p to £12.71 for workers aged 21 and over in April. Consequently, Aldi staff will earn an extra 64p per hour compared to the new national minimum wage.
The retailer, which operates roughly 1,060 stores across the UK and employs more than 45,000 people, is investing a total of £36 million into this pay and benefits package. This follows a similar 31p hourly increase implemented last year.
Enhanced Benefits and London Weighting
Alongside the base rate increase, Aldi is extending its maternity pay offer to 26 weeks on full pay. Store apprentices will also see their earnings rise to £12.02 per hour.
Employees working within the M25 will receive a slightly higher increase of 36p, taking their hourly wage from £14.35 to £14.71. Depending on length of service, pay can rise to £14.30 nationally and £15.03 in London.
Aldi remains unique among UK supermarkets by offering paid breaks to all in-store staff, a benefit the company values at up to £1,470 annually per employee.
Leadership Commentary and Expansion Plans
Giles Hurley, Chief Executive of Aldi UK and Ireland, stated: "Our colleagues are at the heart of everything we do. Their hard work and dedication is what allows us to offer customers the quality, value and service they expect from Aldi. That's why we're making such a significant investment in our promise to never be beaten on pay for our colleagues."
The announcement comes after Aldi reported strong festive sales of £1.65 billion. The company, now the UK's fourth-largest supermarket, continues to fund a rapid expansion, with plans to open 80 new stores across the country over the next two years.
