Aldi Implements 2p Rule for Pay Rise, Sets New Retail Standard

Thousands of Aldi workers in the UK will benefit from a higher-than-expected pay increase starting on September 1, 2025. The supermarket chain is introducing a new policy dubbed the ‘2p rule’, which raises the minimum hourly wage for store assistants to £13.02 (approximately $16.80). This amount is two pence higher than previously announced and positions Aldi as the only supermarket in the UK to offer this rate.

The latest adjustment allows Aldi to remain ahead of its primary competitor, Lidl, which recently increased its minimum wage to £13 (around $16.77) per hour. This decision marks a strategic move for Aldi, reinforcing its status as the highest-paying supermarket for the second time this year within a highly competitive retail landscape.

Understanding the 2p Rule

The 2p rule refers to Aldi’s approach of adding an extra two pence per hour to its previously confirmed wage increases. Initially, the company announced a rise from £12.75 (approximately $16.45) to £13.00 (approximately $16.77). In a last-minute adjustment, the new rate is set at £13.02, which ensures Aldi continues to lead in wage offerings among UK supermarkets.

For employees with more experience, wages can increase to £13.95 (around $18.02). In London, the pay can reach up to £14.66 (approximately $18.94) depending on tenure. This fine-tuning of wage policy underscores Aldi’s commitment to outpacing its competitors in employee compensation.

Who Benefits from the Increased Pay?

The enhanced pay rate will directly affect Aldi’s hourly paid store assistants, a workforce that exceeds 28,000 across the UK. Starting from September 1, 2025, these employees will receive the updated wage structure. For those working in London, the adjusted starting wage will be £14.35 (approximately $18.55) per hour, potentially rising to £14.66 (approximately $18.94) based on their length of service.

In addition to competitive wages, Aldi is unique among UK supermarkets by providing fully paid breaks, a benefit valued at around £1,425 (approximately $1,841) annually for full-time staff. This commitment to employee welfare aligns with Aldi’s strategy to attract and retain talent in a challenging labor market.

Strategic Motivation Behind the Pay Increase

Aldi’s decision to implement the 2p rule is part of a broader strategy to maintain its position as the best-paying supermarket employer in the UK. CEO Giles Hurley emphasized that the company’s achievements are closely tied to the dedication of its employees. By slightly adjusting its pay rates, Aldi not only solidifies its lead over competitors like Lidl but also responds to the ongoing trend of wage increases across the retail sector.

This wage increase comes amid a backdrop of labor shortages and rising living costs, compelling supermarkets to enhance their compensation packages to attract workers.

Aldi’s Hiring Plans and Future Growth

In conjunction with the upcoming pay rise, Aldi is actively recruiting for both full-time and part-time positions throughout its UK stores. The chain is looking for candidates with various levels of experience. This recruitment drive coincides with Aldi’s ambitious expansion strategy, which includes the establishment of 23 new stores. Ten of these locations have already been announced, with more set to open by the end of 2025.

Aldi’s ongoing growth plan is supported by a significant investment of £650 million (approximately $840 million) aimed at expanding its UK portfolio, which also includes refurbishing 35 existing supermarkets.

As the 2p rule takes effect on September 1, 2025, it will not only enhance the earnings of Aldi workers but also reinforce the supermarket’s competitive edge in the UK retail market. This proactive approach sets the stage for continued wage discussions among supermarkets, particularly as the sector navigates the challenges of the final quarter of the year.