The supermarket steps up for staff as festive hiring begins
Aldi has officially raised the bar for supermarket pay in Britain, becoming the first major UK retailer to introduce a £14 hourly rate for store colleagues working in London and within the M25. The announcement comes as the German-owned grocer gears up for its busiest time of the year, with thousands of new positions opening in the run-up to Christmas.
Across the rest of the country, Aldi employees will now earn a starting wage of £13.02 per hour — an increase that further cements the company’s reputation as the highest-paying supermarket in the UK. The move follows rising competition among retailers to attract and retain workers amid ongoing inflation and a tight labour market.
4,500 new jobs ahead of the festive season
To prepare for the Christmas rush, Aldi has launched an ambitious recruitment drive to hire more than 4,500 store colleagues across the UK. The supermarket says the new recruits will help restock shelves, assist customers, and keep stores running smoothly during one of the busiest retail periods of the year.
The roles on offer include Store Assistants, Managers, and Cleaners, as well as opportunities for those looking to build long-term careers in retail. While many of the positions are permanent, Aldi notes that seasonal hires can also benefit from flexible hours and full training, making it an attractive option for job seekers during the holidays.
“Our people are at the heart of our success,” said Kelly Stokes, Recruitment Director at Aldi UK. “At Aldi, our goal is to make high-quality, affordable food accessible to everyone — and at Christmas, demand for that always increases. That’s why we’re bringing more colleagues into our stores, ensuring we continue to deliver the very best experience for our shoppers.”
Paid breaks and a culture that values balance
Beyond pay, Aldi continues to stand out for the way it treats its employees. It remains the only UK supermarket to offer paid breaks to all store colleagues — a benefit worth more than £1,425 per year for the average worker. This commitment to fair treatment and work-life balance is part of what has helped Aldi build a loyal and motivated workforce.
In line with this philosophy, Aldi has also confirmed that all its stores will once again close on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, allowing staff to spend valuable time with family and friends. “It’s important to us that our colleagues have the chance to enjoy a well-deserved break,” Stokes added. “Their dedication and hard work throughout the year make all the difference — especially during the festive period.”
Aldi’s growth strategy continues into 2026
This recruitment campaign is just one part of Aldi’s long-term expansion plans. The supermarket chain, which currently operates over 1,000 stores across the UK, aims to reach 1,500 stores within the next few years. As part of that vision, Aldi is committed to opening roughly one new store every week through the end of 2025.
Industry experts say Aldi’s approach — focusing on quality products, competitive prices, and fair pay — has helped it maintain steady growth despite economic pressures. The company continues to challenge larger rivals such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Morrisons, and Lidl, all of which have been forced to review their pay structures in response to Aldi’s latest move.
Why this pay rise matters
For many workers, the new £14 hourly rate represents more than just a seasonal incentive — it’s a signal of change in the retail sector. Supermarket roles have long been known for demanding shifts and relatively low pay, but Aldi’s decision could push other major chains to rethink how they value their staff.
According to recent reports from the UK’s Office for National Statistics, inflation remains high and living costs continue to put pressure on households. By increasing its pay and maintaining benefits like paid breaks, Aldi hopes to attract skilled workers who want stability and respect in their jobs.
“We know how hard our teams work all year round,” said an Aldi spokesperson. “These pay rates reflect the vital role our colleagues play in providing affordable groceries to millions of families — and they deserve to be rewarded for it.”
What job seekers need to know
Those interested in joining Aldi’s growing team can apply directly through the company’s careers portal. Positions are available across all regions of the UK, with a particular focus on areas surrounding London, the Midlands, and the North West. Successful applicants will receive competitive pay, paid breaks, and access to Aldi’s employee benefits package, which includes training and development opportunities.
Applicants don’t need prior retail experience for entry-level roles — enthusiasm, reliability, and teamwork are the most valued qualities. For those seeking management roles, Aldi offers clear career progression paths, ensuring long-term job growth and development.
Aldi sets the standard for the retail industry
Aldi’s bold move to launch a £14 hourly wage before Christmas is more than just a festive announcement — it’s a reflection of a growing shift in the UK retail landscape. As workers continue to demand fair pay and better working conditions, Aldi is showing that profitability and people-first policies can go hand in hand.
With thousands of new jobs, competitive wages, and a strong focus on employee well-being, Aldi is not just preparing for Christmas — it’s building the future of supermarket work. For job seekers and shoppers alike, that’s something worth celebrating this holiday season.