Aldi has announced its employees would continue to receive paid maternity leave on top of the government’s planned paid parental leave scheme to be rolled out in 2011.
Group managing director Michael Kloeters said Aldi had no plans to remove or reduce its current scheme, which has proven to be very popular with employees.
“Our employees are our greatest asset and an additional cash boost from the government on top of what we already offer will be a great help to new parents,” he said.
“We believe providing a solid working environment, which includes benefits like paid maternity leave to be essential in creating a loyal and happy workforce.”
Aldi was the first grocery retailer to introduce a paid maternity leave scheme in April 2008. Its employees currently receive 14 weeks pay at 50 per cent while on maternity leave.