Lidl doubles paid maternity leave to 28 weeks

Discount supermarket Lidl has doubled its paid maternity and adoption leave to 28 weeks, making it the first UK supermarket to do so.

The German chain will now offer full pay for more than six months, in a move it called a “benchmark for others in the industry to follow”.

It will also offer paid leave to those undergoing fertility treatment and five days of leave to those affected by pregnancy loss.

Stephanie Rogers, Chief Human Resources Officer at Lidl GB, said: “We’re deeply committed to supporting our colleagues, not just in their professional lives but also through personal milestones and challenges. Over the past year, we’ve engaged closely with colleagues to see how we can better support those who are balancing work and family life. 

“Whilst there is always more to be done, these latest enhancements to our Family Leave policies show our dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace and reinforce our ambition to be a first-choice employer.”

Lidl, alongside rival discount supermarket Aldi, has been rapidly growing market share in the past year, as the cost-of-living crisis pushes customers towards discount chains. According to market research firm Kantar, Lidl held a 7.8% share of the grocery market in November, up from 7.4% a year prior.