The discount retailer, boasting over 1,000 stores across the UK, has invested nearly £600 million in store enhancements since 2017. Notably, phase one of the current upgrade initiative is approaching completion.
This initial phase has been aimed at enhancing the shopping environment by expanding areas dedicated to fresh produce, chilled items, and food-to-go selections. Additionally, the store layouts have been simplified, and fixtures have been improved to support energy-efficient LED lighting.
Upon finalizing this phase, Aldi will advance to the subsequent stage of its store improvement program. This next phase will focus on upgrading existing in-store features, including the bakery and health and beauty sections.
Moreover, stores will receive CO2 refrigeration upgrades, which Aldi anticipates will lead to a substantial reduction in carbon emissions—equating to the energy consumption of over 6,500 homes upon completion.
Simultaneously, Aldi announced it will increase its minimum hourly rate from £12.40 (£13.65 in London) to £12.75 (£14.05 in London) starting from 1 March. Furthermore, hourly rates are set to rise again in September to £12.85 or £14.16 in London.
‘Major step forward’
Jonathan Neale, managing director of national real estate at Aldi UK, emphasized, “Aldi’s £67m investment is a major step forward in our commitment to delivering an even better shopping experience for our customers across Britain.”
“Building on the success of our previous upgrades, we’re enhancing store layouts as part of our dedication to providing customers with more sustainable stores, convenience, and an improved shopping experience nationwide.”
In related news, Aldi revealed plans to create 1,600 new roles across its store network. The retailer is actively seeking new store managers, assistant store managers, deputy store managers, store assistants, and cleaners throughout this year.
Additionally, Aldi is allocating approximately £650 million towards new store openings in 2025, with planned locations that include Fulham Broadway in London, Billericay in Essex, and Cheadle in Stoke-on-Trent.
‘Strong strategic move’
Kirk Brazier, growth director at ESA Retail, responded to the news, noting that the expansion of Aldi’s bakery and health and beauty fixtures positions the retailer competitively among its rivals.
“Aldi’s £67m investment is a strong strategic move to reinforce its commitment to growth and customer demand,” he stated.
“At ESA Retail, we assist various retailers in enhancing their customer experience. Aldi’s enhancements in its in-store bakery selection address the growing consumer demand for fresh, high-quality goods at affordable prices, an area traditionally dominated by premium supermarkets, thereby driving the in-store experience forward.”
He further elaborated, “The same principles apply to the investment in their health and beauty range. Aldi is continually challenging mainstream retailers by providing high-quality alternatives to branded products at significantly lower prices. This investment will bolster its reputation as a destination for budget-conscious shoppers seeking quality self-care products, a crucial step in fostering brand strength and customer loyalty.”
