The Aldi 2p rule is a widely discussed UK retail pay policy introduced by Aldi UK in 2025. It refers to an additional 2 pence per hour pay increase added on top of an already-announced wage rise, pushing Aldi’s starting hourly pay to £13.02 per hour. While small on paper, this move has a major symbolic and financial impact, reinforcing Aldi’s position as the highest-paying supermarket employer in the UK.

This article explains everything you need to know about the Aldi 2p rule.

What Is the Aldi 2p Rule?

The Aldi 2p rule is Aldi UK’s decision to add an extra £0.02 per hour to staff wages beyond its previously announced pay increase.

Key details:

• Original planned rate: £13.00 per hour

• Final rate after 2p increase: £13.02 per hour

• Applies to hourly-paid store colleagues

• Introduced to stay ahead of competitor pay rises

This small increase ensures Aldi retains its market-leading wage position.

When Does the Aldi 2p Rule Take Effect?

The Aldi 2p rule comes into effect on September 1, 2025, across Aldi UK stores.

Important timing facts:

• Applies from September 2025 payroll

• Implemented nationwide

• Coincides with rival supermarket wage changes

By acting quickly, Aldi ensured it remained ahead of competitors, especially Lidl, in the ongoing retail pay race.

Why Aldi Introduced the 2p Increase

The decision behind the Aldi 2p rule is strategic.

Primary reasons:

• Maintain highest-paying supermarket status

• Respond to Lidl’s wage increase

• Support staff retention and recruitment

• Strengthen Aldi’s employer brand

Although only 2p, the move sends a strong message about Aldi’s commitment to fair pay.

Who Benefits From the Aldi 2p Rule?

The Aldi 2p rule benefits thousands of Aldi UK employees, particularly store-based colleagues.

Those impacted include:

• Checkout staff

• Stock assistants

• Store operations employees

• New starters and experienced workers

With length of service, wages can rise further—up to £13.95 per hour, making Aldi one of the most attractive retail employers in the UK.

How the Aldi 2p Rule Compares to Other Supermarkets

In the competitive UK grocery sector, pay rates are closely watched.

Comparison highlights:

• Aldi: £13.02/hour (rising with service)

• Lidl: Slightly lower base rate

• Tesco / Sainsbury’s / Asda: Below Aldi’s starting pay

The Aldi 2p rule ensures Aldi remains clearly ahead, even if by a narrow margin.

Why the Aldi 2p Rule Matters Long-Term

Beyond the immediate pay rise, the Aldi 2p rule reflects broader trends.

Long-term significance:

• Shows commitment to employee wellbeing

• Sets a benchmark for retail wages

• Encourages competitors to raise pay

• Supports cost-of-living pressures for workers

Small increases like this can make a meaningful difference over time, especially for full-time staff.

Conclusion

The Aldi 2p rule may sound minor, but it carries major importance. By adding an extra 2p per hour, Aldi has reaffirmed its place as the highest-paying UK supermarket, benefitting thousands of employees and setting a powerful industry standard.

This move highlights how even small pay adjustments can have big implications in the competitive retail sector.