Olympian helps launch new Aldi
THE BOROUGH’S first branch of Aldi was officially opened last week thanks to a gold-medal winning Olympian … and with a bit of help from a popular children’s TV character.
Last Thursday at 8am, slalom canoeist Etienne Stott cut the ribbon to the Earley store, watched by pupils from Beechwood Primary School in Woodley and Chase from Paw Patrol.
Mr Stott showed off his medal to the first customers while Chase high fived youngsters keen to meet their hero.
Afterwards, Mr Stott went to Beechwood to give an assembly on the benefits of healthy eating, exercising, and what it takes to become a professional athlete.
There was a steady stream of customers for the opening and the first 30 shoppers received a bag of fruit and vegetables.
The former men’s eight champion said: “I had a great time meeting everyone at Beechwood Primary. It was a really friendly atmosphere and the children all seemed so excited; hopefully I got the message through about the importance of healthy eating and exercising.” Store manager Craig Breadmore was in high spirits after the opening: “Everyone had a fantastic time this morning at the opening.
“It was great to meet Etienne and to hear him talk about his achievements – the children from Beechwood Primary loved him.”
The store, located at Suttons Park Avenue, has created 25 new jobs and there are still some vacancies.