Aldi has announced its intention to launch 40 new stores in the UK this year. The discount retailer is set to invest £370 million in expanding its presence, with new locations including Southam in Warwickshire, Hastings in East Sussex, and Amersham in Buckinghamshire. This initiative is part of a broader £1.6 billion investment program over two years, aiming to achieve Aldi’s long-term objective of reaching 1,500 stores in the UK.
Recent store openings in 2025 encompassed areas such as Kirkintilloch in East Dunbartonshire, Eastbourne in East Sussex, Fulham Broadway in London, and Deeside in Wales. Giles Hurley, Aldi UK and Ireland’s Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the company’s dedication to providing high-quality, affordable groceries to all customers. He highlighted Aldi’s mission to ensure access to affordable, quality food across the UK, reflecting the brand’s commitment to inclusivity.
Aldi’s reputation for affordability was reaffirmed when it was named the UK’s most economical supermarket for the fifth consecutive year by consumer advocacy group Which? The supermarket chain also secured The Grocer’s ‘Super Grocer 33’ award, recognizing its consistent value for British shoppers. Aldi recently announced an increase in pay rates for its store employees, with national rates for store assistants rising to £13.35 an hour, reaching up to £14.30 with tenure. Employees working within the M25 area will receive £14.71 per hour, increasing to £15.03 with service, effective from March 1, 2026.
In 2025, Aldi retained its position as the cheapest supermarket for most months, with Lidl holding the title in July and October. The average price difference between Aldi and Lidl throughout the year was a mere 77p. Aldi maintained its affordability in December, offering a list of 68 items at an average cost of £123.60, just slightly lower than Lidl at £123.70. Comparatively, Asda’s average cost for the same items was £134.89, while Tesco Clubcard members paid £135.84 or £139.12 without a Clubcard.
