Asda has announced a new hourly pay rate for store-based workers across all UK stores, set to take effect from July 5. The supermarket chain, which operates more than 1,000 locations nationwide, will increase wages as part of a two-step pay uplift announced earlier this year.
Pay Increase Details
From July 5, hourly pay for workers outside the M25 will rise to £13.10, while those within the M25 will receive £14.35 per hour. This follows a previous increase on April 1, when rates were raised from £12.60 to £12.71 outside the M25 and from £13.82 to £13.93 inside the M25. The combined increases represent a 4% above-inflation pay rise for 110,000 hourly-paid retail colleagues, with the chain investing £80 million in the pay reward.
Industry Context
Asda is among several major retailers boosting wages to retain and attract staff amid ongoing cost-of-living pressures. Sainsbury's introduced a 5% above-inflation increase from March, with hourly pay rising to £13.23 nationally and £14.54 in London. Lidl raised pay from March 1 to £13.45 per hour outside London (rising to £14.00 with service) and £14.80 in London (up to £15.35 for experienced staff). Aldi followed in April, increasing rates to £13.50 nationally and £14.88 inside the M25, with higher rates for experienced workers. Other chains including Primark and Tesco have also improved pay.
Company Statement
James Goodman, chief people officer at Asda, said: "I’m pleased we’ve been able to give them an above-inflation pay award and invest in this way. I’d also like to thank them for their continued hard work and commitment to making Asda better every day."
