Aldi becomes first UK supermarket to introduce new £13.50 rule from April

Aldi will introduce a new £13.50 rule in just over a month, in a major boost for its workers. From April 1, Store Assistants working at UK branches chain will earn £13.50 per hour nationally, with those working inside in the M25 getting £14.88.

They pay rates increase to £14.47 and £15.20 respectively based on length of service. Aldi says the change will benefit 28,000 hourly-paid store workers, marking the second pay rise for Aldi teams in 2026 alone, after January's announcement of enhanced rates and extended maternity pay to 26 weeks at full pay.

Together, these changes represent a £42 million investment in colleague pay this year. Aldi says its new new rates are higher those of all its competitors.

The groceries giant says it's also the only major supermarket that offers paid breaks to all its staff, a benefit worth around £1,500 per year to the average store worker.

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.

"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."

Aldi employs more than 45,000 colleagues across the UK and continues to expand rapidly, with plans to open 40 new stores in 2026 as part of a £370 million investment programme.

"The supermarket is investing an additional £300 million in upgrading and extending existing stores, reinforcing its position as one of Britain's fastest-growing food retailers."

It comes as Aldi revealed plans to open 40 new stores in 2026 as part of a £370million investment across the country.

The move forms part of the chain's £1.6billion two-year investment strategy announced last year, as Aldi looks to achieve its long-term abition of having 1,500 UK stores.