Aldi plans to repay business rates relief

Aldi has announced its plans to repay the government any money it has received during the pandemic from the business rates relief.

Back in March, all retail, hospitality and leisure businesses in England were given a business rates holiday for 12 months to help them get through the crisis.

Supermarkets, whose sales have skyrocketed in the midst of the public health crisis, have been criticised for taking government assistance while paying dividends to shareholders.

The supermarket chain follows other retailers, such as Sainsbury’s and Tesco, who have committed to repaying £410m and £585m back to the government, respectively.

In a short statement, Aldi revealed it will be paying back over £100m to the government and devolved administrations.

Giles Hurley, chief executive officer at Aldi UK, said: “Thanks to our amazing colleagues, we have been able to remain open during lockdowns and despite the increased costs we have incurred during the pandemic, we believe returning the full value of our business rates relief is the right decision to help support the nation. 

“Our continued investment for our colleagues and our customers will remain unchanged.”