Aldi is implementing a new trial where some of its stores will close an hour earlier than usual. Instead of closing at 10 pm, these stores will now close at 9 pm. While certain stores have already adopted this change, others are expected to follow suit later this month.
The affected stores have not been disclosed by Aldi, but signs are being displayed in the shops to inform customers. An Aldi employee in Heanor, Derbyshire, shared on Facebook that their store would start closing at 9 pm from July 13 on weekdays, with no change on Sundays. This adjustment is initially a trial but might become permanent.
Another Aldi branch in the West Midlands is reportedly set to close at 9 pm starting from July 16. Aldi currently operates 1,084 stores, with approximately 48 stores already closing at 9 pm. The supermarket aims to expand to 1,500 stores in the UK in the long run.
Aldi emphasized its commitment to offering the lowest prices to customers, attributing this move to their efficient business model that allows for continuous cost savings for shoppers. In line with its expansion plans, Aldi is set to open 16 new stores in various locations, including Watford, Hoxton in London, Hattersley in Greater Manchester, and Balsall Common in the West Midlands.
Moreover, Aldi will be upgrading 25 existing stores across the UK, featuring enhancements such as more shopping space and sustainable elements like energy-efficient fridge doors. Specific improvements will also be made to the bakery, health and beauty, and fresh food sections in select stores. Noteworthy locations for these upgrades include Liverpool, London, Aberdeen, Nottingham, and Manchester.
Furthermore, Aldi will invest £300 million in enhancing its current stores and allocate £370 million toward the establishment of new stores nationwide.