Why You Might Be Seeing More Aldi Stores Across The U.S.
Aldi, the German grocery store known for its high-quality food items that have cult followings amongst shoppers, is becoming an increasingly popular option amongst shoppers of all income brackets looking to save on grocery bills. The grocery chain uses some ingenious methods to keep prices low, something that's attracting new shoppers to the tune of 5.3 million as of April 2023, according to Winsight Grocery Business.
This growth is translating into new stores popping up around the country. The chain had hoped to open 150 stores in 2022, but was only able to open or remodel 139 stores, which still put it in the top three largest grocery chains in the country. Per Aldi, there are currently 2,305 stores across 39 states, but there are plans to add 120 new locations and 2,000 employees this year. Aldi opened new stores in established markets like Pennsylvania and Missouri in May, and has already added 35 new stores through the first quarter of this year. In the southeast, Aldi has been seeing a lot of growth — there are close to 8 million potential customers. It's opened a new regional hub and 564,000-square-foot distribution center in Alabama, which will supply the area, including new territory in New Orleans and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where it's opened two new stores.
Shoppers are attracted to Aldi's affordable prices even when the economy is good
Aldi's success in the U.S. is fueled by shoppers keeping a watchful eye on how inflation is affecting grocery store visits, as well as the value Aldi provides. Aldi added 9.4 million new customers in 2022 and keeps growing in the grocery sector — the no-frills shopping experience and value for money turned shoppers into repeat customers and is especially popular amongst American millennials. According to a statement from Aldi CEO Jason Hart, new shoppers tend to return to Aldi even after the economy stabilizes. The expansions across the country aim to make grocery shopping convenient and enjoyable while still being affordable. Aldi's expansion also comes at a time when customers are facing understaffed or under-trained stores, or stores like Walmart are closing altogether.
The U.S. isn't the only country seeing an increase in Aldi stores — the chain is adding six new stores to its 155-store fleet in Ireland, according to The Irish Times. In times of inflation and watching where every penny goes, it's good to be Aldi.