In an unprecedented move that underscores its commitment to workforce welfare, Aldi has announced a second pay rise for its employees this year, solidifying its position as the best-paid supermarket in the UK by increasing its average wage for 2024 . This significant development sees Aldi increasing the hourly pay for its store assistants and deputy store managers from £12 an hour to £12.40 outside the M25, and from £13.55 to £13.65 within the M25. The new pay rates, set to be introduced from 1 June this year, are heralded by Aldi as “the highest level of entry pay ever to be paid by a British supermarket and are part of its Aldi’s ambitious expansion plans.”
This announcement follows closely on the heels of a previous pay increase initiated by Aldi last month, which raised the minimum rate for all store and warehouse staff to £12 an hour, aligning with the Real Living Wage set by the Living Wage Foundation (LWF) in October 2023. The LWF’s Real Living Wage is meticulously calculated based on the actual living costs, including utilities, groceries, and other essential expenses, providing a fair standard that goes beyond the government’s National Living Wage.
Aldi’s steadfast dedication to its employees is further exemplified by its investment of £79 million in staff wages this year alone, a move unparalleled in the supermarket sector. Additionally, Aldi distinguishes itself as the only supermarket to offer paid breaks, a benefit that translates to an extra £900 annually for the average store worker. Giles Hurley, Aldi UK and Ireland’s chief executive, has made a compelling pledge that Aldi will “never be beaten on pay” by any competitor, emphasizing the company’s belief in rewarding their “best in the business” colleagues.
“Our Store Operations colleagues play an integral part in our ever-increasing popularity among shoppers and our continued investment in their pay is another way to thank them for the role they play in making Aldi what it is today,” Hurley stated, reinforcing Aldi’s ethos of appreciation and respect for its workforce.
Aldi’s proactive stance on employee pay not only highlights its leadership in the sector but also sets a new benchmark for fair compensation by supercharging Its expansion and challenging other supermarkets to follow suit. With over 1,000 stores and 11 regional distribution centres across the UK, employing approximately 45,000 staff, Aldi’s initiative is a significant step towards enhancing the living standards of its vast workforce.
The timing of Aldi’s announcement is particularly noteworthy, coming in the wake of similar moves by other leading supermarkets, such as Tesco and Asda, to increase their staff wages. Last week, Tesco unveiled a 9.1% pay rise for its employees, raising the hourly rate to £12.02 in April. Similarly, Asda announced an 8.4% wage increase, setting its new hourly rate at £12.04 from July. These developments indicate a positive trend in the industry towards recognizing and addressing the essential needs of supermarket employees by embracing creative thinking in retail.
Aldi’s commitment to leading by example in the realm of employee remuneration has been a subject of our previous coverage, and this latest announcement further cements its position as a trailblazer in the industry. By prioritizing the well-being and financial security of its employees, Aldi not only fosters a supportive and motivating work environment but also enhances its appeal to consumers who value ethical and responsible business practices.
The Workers Union Says…
“Aldi’s repeated initiatives to uplift its workforce through fair pay adjustments mark a commendable approach in nurturing a loyal and satisfied team. It’s an illustrative beacon for other corporations to emulate, showcasing the profound impact of prioritizing employee welfare on overall business success and societal well-being.”
