Aldi became the first UK supermarket to introduce a £13.50 hourly pay rate for its entry-level shop assistants this spring, in a boost for its workforce.
From April 1, Store Assistants working in UK branches of the chain started receiving £13.50 per hour nationally, while those working inside the M25 began earning £14.88 per hour. Pay rates increase to £14.47 and £15.20 respectively based on length of service.
Second Pay Rise of 2026
In its announcement, Aldi said the change would benefit 28,000 hourly-paid store workers. It marked the second pay rise for Aldi teams in 2026 alone, following January's announcement of enhanced rates and extended maternity pay to 26 weeks at full pay.
The chain, which has more than 1,050 stores across the UK, said at the time that the new rates were higher than those of all its competitors.
Aldi UK and Ireland CEO Giles Hurley said at the time: "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.
"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."
Competitors Follow Suit
However, Aldi was not the only store to enhance pay rates for its workers in 2026. Fellow German supermarket rival Lidl increased its entry-level national base rate pay to £13.45 at the end of March.
Other grocery giants including M&S, Sainsbury's and Tesco have also boosted pay for their staff.
Store Upgrades Ahead of Christmas
This week, Aldi confirmed eight newly upgraded stores across the UK are set to welcome customers again over the next few weeks, just in time for Christmas. The retailer says it follows a "significant" investment in improvements.
The stores in Cardiff, Dunston, Witham, Perth, London, Liskeard, Greenock and Bradford are set to reopen between November 5 and December 3.
Aldi says the upgrades form part of its £300 million investment in its existing store estate. The upgrades include store extensions, refreshed shopping areas and more energy-efficient technology.
According to the firm, customers will also benefit from improvements to key areas of the stores, including the bakery, health and beauty, fresh food and produce sections.
