Lidl Northern Ireland implemented a pay increase for hourly-paid staff and Deputy Store Managers on 1 May. The change raises minimum hourly pay to £13.30, exceeding the UK National Living Wage of £12.71.

The investment totals £756,000 across 44 stores and the Regional Distribution Centre at Nutts Corner. Hourly employees receive an average annual pay rise of £480. Deputy Store Managers gain an average of £710 yearly.

Increases range from 2% to 5% based on role and position. This follows a £2.3 million investment earlier in 2026, bringing total pay investments since 2022 above £11 million.

Gordon Cruikshanks, Regional Managing Director at Lidl Northern Ireland, stated the company prioritizes competitive pay for customer-facing and operational roles. He noted staff contributions drive business success and the firm supports career growth alongside wages.

Lidl Northern Ireland employs over 1,300 people and recruits for more than 150 positions. A 1% rise in employee benefits is scheduled later this year.

The retailer provides family leave enhancements, fertility support, wellbeing programs and inclusion policies. It holds Top Employer accreditation from the Top Employers Institute for five years, the only Northern Ireland retailer with this status.