Aldi UK Plans £1.6bn Expansion, 21 Stores Opening Soon

Aldi UK is embarking on its largest-ever expansion plan by investing a record £1.6 billion over the next two years to open 80 new stores, aiming to increase its footprint from 1,060 to 1,500 locations across the country. This aggressive growth strategy is driven by heightened consumer demand for affordable groceries amid economic challenges, with Aldi maintaining its position as Britain’s most affordable supermarket according to Which?. Despite a rise in sales to £18.1 billion in 2024, operating profits fell 21% to £435.5 million, largely due to Aldi's commitment to lowering prices, investing in new stores, and increasing staff wages to a minimum of £13 per hour. The expansion will create thousands of jobs and extend Aldi’s reach into hundreds more communities without an existing store. CEO Giles Hurley emphasized Aldi's focus on offering quality products at consistently low prices without gimmicks or loyalty clubs, responding to ongoing financial pressures faced by shoppers. Aldi also reaffirmed its commitment to British suppliers, having spent £14 billion with them in 2024.