Rising wages in the retail sector are once again in the spotlight, at a time when companies are seeking to respond to pressure from the cost of living and the need to attract and retain workers. Next year, this trend will gain expression with a large salary increase announced by one of the largest distribution chains in Portugal.
In this context, Lidl Portugal will make the largest salary investment in its history in 2026, in an amount exceeding 12 million euros, and will set the entry salary package above 1,200 euros. The measure comes into force in January, according to the portal specialized in economics and business Executive Digest.
Improved salary conditions
With this update, the base entry salary for Store and Warehouse Operators increases to 1,000 euros gross per month, with a workload of 40 hours per week. A daily meal allowance of 9.60 euros is added to the base value.
In practice, the initial salary package amounts to around 1,211 euros per month, which corresponds to more than 16,300 euros per year. According to the company, this increase exceeds, in percentage terms, the most recent adjustment to the National Minimum Wage.
The salary update is not limited to entry-level roles. Clerks and Section Heads are also covered by the measure, registering an increase of 11% compared to the previous base of 900 euros, says the same source.
Expected salary progressions throughout the year
Lidl Portugal also states that it will maintain an annual progression model considered transparent, with minimum increases of 5%. This system may allow some workers to have two salary increases in the same year, depending on the moment of progression.
At the bottom of the career ladder, an operator’s base salary can reach 1,250 euros. At this level, the overall salary package approaches 19,800 euros per year.
Benefits extended to all employees
In addition to the financial component, all workers, regardless of the number of hours contracted, have access to health insurance, extendable to the household, according to the previously cited source.
The company also provides free financial, legal and psychological counseling services, reinforcing the benefits package associated with the functions.
Endless contracts from day one
Another point highlighted is the maintenance of open-ended contracts for all functions from the first day of work. The measure aims to reinforce labor stability and eliminate models of greater precariousness, according to .
“This is the largest salary investment in our history and reflects our commitment to our employees and the Portuguese economy. Valuing our people will always mean valuing our future”, says Hélder Rocha, CEO of Lidl Portugal.
Also read:
