ALDI is a major chain of discount stores that has operations worldwide, including the United Kingdom. In the U.K., the company’s registered address is at Atherstone, Warwickshire.

History

ALDI is a company that has its origins in Germany. The company’s current name is actually a shortened version of Albrecht Discount. Its complete name is ALDI Einkauf GmbH & Co. oHG. ALDI is divided into two groups, ALDI Süd (the South group) and ALDI Nord (the North group). The two divisions are independent from each other and have market boundaries specified for each.

Both divisions currently have worldwide operations. ALDI Nord’s operations extend to Denmark, France, Poland, the Iberian Peninsula and the Benelux countries. ALDI Süd’s operations extend to the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hungary, Switzerland, Greece, Slovenia, the United States and Australia.

In Britain, ALDI’s expansion has been rapid, as there have been periods when a new store would be opened each week. From 1989 when the company first started operating in the United Kingdom to the present, ALDI Süd has opened around 420 stores scattered all over the U.K.

ALDI stores in Great Britain operate from 9 AM until 7 PM during weekdays. There are also some weekdays when the stores are open from 10 AM until 8 PM. Stores in Wales or England are open from 10 AM to 4 PM on Sundays, like most supermarkets. In Scotland, weekdays and weekends more or less have the same operating hours. Ireland ALDI stores have the same basic operating hours as Britain and Scotland.

ALDI has always been known for offering low prices for all of its goods. In the U.K. and in Australia, ALDI stores offer imported German gourmet foods at bargain prices. In its stores in Europe, Australia and the United States, ALDI does not provide plastic bags for free. What customers can do is to buy different types of reusable bags at checkout for their purchased goods. This is the store’s way of encouraging customers to bring their own grocery bags and ‘reduce and reuse.’

In the U.K., ALDI is still considered a small player when compared to larger and more popular supermarket chains. Although its market share in the country is about 3%, the discount chain is considered an important part of the country’s grocery industry.

Stats

Headquarters: Atherstone, Warwickshire
Ownership Type: Private, operated by the ALDI Süd division
ALDI Stores: about 421 stores
ALDI Employees: information not available
Geography: Great Britain
Demography: budget conscious consumers, quality shoppers
ALDI Customer Care: 0844 406 8800

Brands

Ploughman’s Chutney, West Country, Gianni’s Ice Cream and Carlo’s Pizza are among ALDI’s numerous brands

Important links

Corporate Home Page
Promotions and Coupons
Products
ALDI Store Locator
ALDI Jobs and Careers
Contact Information