Lidl announces €11m workforce investment with 4% total rewards increase

Lidl Ireland has announced an €11 million investment in employee pay increases for its workforce in the Republic of Ireland, with a further £2.3 million (€2.69 million) being invested in the retailer's Northern Ireland operations, effective from 1st March.

Dublin Gazette reported that more than 1,400 employees across Lidl's 53 stores in Dublin are set for significant pay increases as part of the national investment. All of Lidl's 5,500 employees in Ireland will benefit from an average increase of 4% to their Total Rewards package.

The investment consists of an annual 3% increase to salaries, equal to on average €1,500 per employee, with the remainder contributed to benefits including pension funds, private healthcare and personal insurance. Since 2022, Lidl has invested more than €58 million in pay rises for employees in the Republic of Ireland.

With this latest increase, Lidl Ireland has moved its minimum wage for employees to €15.40 and top rate wage to €17.90, matching the recommended €15.40 Living Wage rate for 2026. Lidl was the first major nationwide employer to commit to paying the Living Wage in 2015.

Maeve McCleane, chief people officer at Lidl Ireland & Northern Ireland, said: "At Lidl, we believe that supporting our colleagues is the foundation of our success."

She added that the company is focused on a holistic approach to employee compensation, balancing immediate salary growth with long-term lifestyle benefits, providing more than just competitive pay by building a comprehensive support system that benefits every individual.

For the sixth year running, Lidl has been recognised by the Top Employers Institute as a Top Employer for 2026. The retailer is one of only 13 Irish companies and the only grocery retailer to receive the accolade.

Access complete details on Lidl's workforce investment and total rewards strategy.