Glasgow store among record Aldi launch

Discount supermarket chain Aldi has opened a record eight stores on a single day, including a further outlet in Glasgow, as it prepares for what is likely to be its biggest-ever Christmas.

The latest stores are part of a tranche of 24 new branches that are opening throughout November and December. The German-owned retailer is also upgrading three of its stores through a refurbishment programme during this time.

The store openings in the final two months of the year will create some 840 jobs and are part of the grocery chain’s long-term target to have 1,200 UK stores by 2025.

Giles Hurley, chief executive of Aldi UK, said: “We’ve stepped up our store opening programme in the run-up to Christmas so that more shoppers can enjoy fantastic quality products, at prices they can afford, throughout the festive period.”

This year’s most popular premium products are expected to include the Specially Selected Three Little Pigs Wrapped in Bacon and the Specially Selected Exquisite Chocolate Carousel.

Hurley added: “With new stores opening right across the country, stocking our largestever festive range, we’re all set to help our customers enjoy an amazing Christmas.”

The firm has opened more than 70 outlets during 2018 and currently has in excess of 800 UK stores. The supermarket group’s share of the UK grocery market currently stands at an all-time high of 7.6 per cent. Aldi and rival Lidl – also German owned – have been grabbing market share from the established players. 0 Aldi aims to have 1,200 UK stores running by 2025