Supermarket chain Aldi has unveiled plans to create 1,600 new jobs across the UK as it continues to expand its presence with new store openings. The retailer will open locations in areas including Cambridgeshire, Greater Manchester, and Lytham in Lancashire, offering employment opportunities in urban and regional communities.
Aldi’s expansion comes when competitors, including Tesco and Sainsbury’s, announced job reductions. Sainsbury’s cited rising operational costs, including an increased national insurance bill, as a key factor in its decision to cut staff.
Meanwhile, Aldi’s investment in new stores and recruitment signals its commitment to growth and workforce development.
As part of its commitment to fair pay, Aldi has announced a wage increase for store assistants, setting a new industry benchmark. From April, entry-level pay will start at £12.71 per hour nationally and £14.00 per hour within the M25, exceeding the upcoming national living wage of £12.21 per hour.
Employees with longer service will see their wages rise further, reaching £13.62 and £14.23 per hour, depending on location.
“Our colleagues are the best in the business and this latest pay rise reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring they remain the best paid, said Giles Hurley, CEO of Aldi UK and Ireland.
Aldi’s HR Director, Kelly Stokes, emphasised that the company remains dedicated to providing rewarding careers and competitive wages for store employees.