The bargain supermarket named cheapest in the UK by consumer champion Which? for 13 months in a row is planning a large-scale expansion across the country.
Aldi bosses have reportedly allocated £650million for the scheme, which will see 30 new branches open around the country.
The multi-million pound investment follows a packed schedule of new openings in 2024, with shutters being lifted on branches in Totton in Hampshire, Cribbs Causeway in Bristol and Pwllheli in Gwynedd in the last few weeks alone.
New locations are expected to be based in Hampshire, Bristol, Essex, Stoke on Trent and London.
Giles Hurley, chief executive officer for the UK’s fourth-largest supermarket chain, said: “At Aldi, our unwavering commitment has always been to provide Britain with the best value groceries.
“The demand for our unbeatable prices is now at an all-time high, which gives us the confidence to continue investing in Britain to provide greater access to our award-winning products at the lowest prices.”
Mr Hurley also hinted that soon there would be no regions in the UK without a local Aldi branch.
“We recognise that there are still areas without an Aldi store, so our expansion plans for 2025 are designed to address some of these gaps as we work towards our long-term goal of 1,500 UK stores,” he added.
The booming business also recently announced a second pay increase for employees this year, with the minimum hourly rate rising to £12.40 nationally and £13.65 within the M25 area.
Supermarkets around the UK will be open to shoppers right up to 6pm on Christmas Eve, with Aldi stores closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
Those looking to grab presents and festive grub at the last minute can pop to their locals between the hours of 7am and 6pm on December 24 and the days between Christmas and the New Year.
Adding to its impressive array of awards and titles, Aldi has been named Christmas Retailer of the Year by the Quality Food Awards as well as Best Overall Grocer at the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Christmas Taste Test 2024.
Source link
