In a short statement, Aldi said it would return the full value of tax breaks received over the pandemic to the UK government and devolved administrations, following Morrisons announcement last night and Sainsbury’s this morning. 

Chief Executive Officer at Aldi UK, Giles Hurley 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.”

The UK’s largest grocer Tesco was the first of the essential retailers to commit to returning business rates relief yesterday, announcing it would repay the £585m it had received in full.