15 Must-Know Aldi Facts for Loyal Shoppers

Loyal Aldi shoppers know the store isn’t just about low prices; it’s a whole system built for savings, speed, and smart choices. From the way items are displayed to the secret behind those red price tags, everything has a reason. These facts pull back the curtain on what really makes Aldi different, and why so many shoppers keep coming back. Whether it’s the award-winning wine or the weekly surprises in the middle aisle, there’s more to this grocery chain than meets the eye.

Aldi cashiers are trained for maximum speed

Aldi’s checkout process is notably swift, a result of deliberate design. Cashiers are seated, which, according to company testing, allows them to ring up items faster than standing counterparts. This setup, combined with streamlined barcodes and shelf-ready packaging, enhances efficiency and reduces customer wait times. The company also tracks cashier productivity and rewards those who perform well. It’s a system that saves time for both shoppers and staff.

Aldi ranks among the most popular UK grocers

In recent years, Aldi has surged in popularity within the UK grocery market. As of March 2025, Aldi held a 10.6% share of all food and drink sales across UK supermarkets, surpassing Asda to become the third-largest retailer in this sector. British shoppers appreciate its low prices and quality private label goods. Aldi continues to open new locations across the UK to meet growing demand.

Red price tags reveal limited-time discounts

Aldi uses a color-coded system to help shoppers spot deals quickly. Red and white tags, known as “Aldi Savers,” indicate temporary price drops on everyday items. Some meat products also carry red stickers for quick-sale discounts. These promotions usually last for a week or until stock runs out, encouraging shoppers to act fast. If you see red, it’s worth taking a second look.

Aldi’s budget wines are award-winning

Aldi offers a selection of wines that are both budget-friendly and of commendable quality. Many of these wines have received accolades, with Aldi-exclusive bottles winning over 217 awards. Some wines cost as little as $5 and rival more expensive options in blind taste tests. Wine Enthusiast and other reviewers have recognized Aldi’s commitment to quality. You don’t need to splurge to sip something great.

Aldi and Lidl are completely separate companies

Despite common misconceptions, Aldi and Lidl are not affiliated. Both originated in Germany and operate discount grocery chains, but they’re owned and run by different entities. Aldi is split into Aldi Nord and Aldi Süd, while Lidl is owned by the Schwarz Group. While they often compete in the same markets, there’s no corporate link between the two. Their similarities stem from shared discount retail strategies, not shared ownership.

Aldi sells more than just groceries

Aldi’s “Aldi Finds” section features a rotating lineup of non-food items like home goods, tools, and even clothing. These special buys are only available for a limited time and vary week to week. Shoppers can find everything from air fryers to camping gear, often at unbeatable prices. This adds an element of surprise and treasure-hunting to the shopping experience. Many loyal customers plan weekly trips just to see what’s new.

Wednesday mornings are prime time to shop at Aldi

For the freshest picks and newest products, Wednesday mornings are your best bet at Aldi. That’s when new “Aldi Finds” and discounted groceries hit the shelves. Early birds often score the best deals before items sell out. Some locations even experience lines before opening on Wednesdays. If you want first dibs, set your alarm.

A family feud split Aldi into two groups

In 1960, a disagreement between brothers Karl and Theo Albrecht over selling cigarettes led to the division of Aldi into Aldi Nord and Aldi Süd. Each brother took control of one half of the business. The split was amicable, and both chains continued to thrive independently. Today, Aldi Süd operates in the U.S., U.K., and Australia, while Aldi Nord covers parts of Europe. The divide remains one of the most significant in retail history.

Aldi has its own gluten-free brand

Recognizing the rise in dietary needs, Aldi introduced liveGfree, its in-house line of gluten-free products. The line features everything from pasta and baking mixes to frozen entrees and snacks. It’s priced lower than many national gluten-free brands, making it a budget-friendly option for those with celiac or gluten sensitivity. Aldi regularly rotates new additions to this line. Many shoppers find the quality surprisingly high for the price.

Aldi supports local food sourcing in some areas

In select regions, Aldi partners with local suppliers to offer fresh produce, dairy, and meat. This approach helps support regional farmers while reducing transportation costs. Locally sourced goods are fresher and have a smaller environmental footprint. Aldi doesn’t always advertise these items, but they’re a smart choice when available. You’ll often find signage indicating local origins in the fresh food sections.

Aldi products have earned over 2,000 awards

Since 2017, Aldi has received more than 2,000 awards for its exclusive brand products. These accolades cover a range of categories, from food quality to innovation and value. Organizations like Product of the Year and Good Housekeeping have recognized Aldi items. The awards highlight the retailer’s focus on maintaining quality across its private label lines. It’s one reason shoppers trust Aldi’s store brands so much.

Aldi keeps prices low through unique strategies

Aldi reduces operating costs by using minimal displays, smaller store footprints, and requiring a quarter deposit for carts. These strategies help them avoid hiring cart attendants and streamline shelf stocking. Many products are displayed in their original shipping boxes for faster restocking. The company also limits brand variety to reduce complexity. All these practices help keep prices down for customers.

Aldi originated in Germany in the early 1900s

Aldi’s story began in 1913 when Anna Albrecht opened a small store in Essen, Germany. Her sons, Karl and Theo, eventually took over and expanded it post-WWII. The name Aldi comes from “Albrecht Discount.” From modest beginnings, it grew into one of the world’s most influential grocery chains. Aldi now operates thousands of stores across multiple continents.

Nearly 90% of Aldi’s products are store brands

Around 80–90% of Aldi’s inventory consists of exclusive private label products. This model gives Aldi greater control over ingredients, sourcing, and pricing. Private label items often mimic national brand quality but cost significantly less. Aldi regularly tests and reformulates these products to meet consumer expectations. It’s part of how the store keeps prices low without sacrificing quality.

Aldi avoids artificial additives in its private labels

Aldi’s private label food products are free from certified synthetic colors, MSG, and partially hydrogenated oils. This decision aligns with growing consumer demand for cleaner ingredient lists. The company made these changes across its product lines in response to health concerns. These exclusions apply to over 90% of the food on Aldi shelves. It’s a quiet but impactful shift toward better-for-you shopping.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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