Supermarket chain Sainsbury’s is to award its hourly paid employees a 5% pay rise for 2026.
Its hourly pay will increase to £13.23 per hour nationally and £14.54 per hour in London from March. As a result, full-time hourly-paid employees’ pay will increase by more than £1,200 this year and by 42% in the last five years.
According to Sainsbury’s, this year’s increase builds on several years of investment in staff wages, aiming to invest in employees with a rise that reflects their contributions.
It is intended to reinforce its position in the sector and demonstrate its commitment to being a great place to work, as well as supporting employees’ wellbeing and success with competitive rates.
Simon Roberts, chief executive of Sainsbury’s, said: “Our employees are at the heart of our business and success, and rewarding them well continues to be a priority. Their hard work, dedication and commitment have driven our strong momentum and helped us win grocery market share growth for the sixth consecutive Christmas period.
“I’m delighted to share that we will be raising pay for our hourly-paid employees by 5% this year. This increase reflects our commitment to rewarding our employees for their exceptional service and productivity.”
Joanne Thomas, general secretary at trade union Usdaw, added: “Usdaw has a longstanding and valued relationship with Sainsbury’s, and we welcome today’s announcement of an above-inflation pay rise. Our members are key workers in their communities and crucial to the success of the business. It is only right they are fairly rewarded for their hard work, a case that Usdaw has consistently made in pay talks with the organisation.”
Sainsbury’s employee benefits package includes a pension scheme, sharesave scheme, free food during shifts, and staff discounts.
