BATAVIA, IL – As Aldi looks to move further into the hearts of U.S. consumers, the company has announced a slight shift in its current expansion strategy. The discount retailer will be undergoing a $1.6 billion plan to remodel all current locations, including a focus on revamping its produce departments.

“With this significant investment in our stores, what we’re really doing is continuing to invest in ALDI customers,” said Jason Hart, CEO, ALDI. “We’re continuing to expand our fresh offerings, which means we need to provide more space for produce, meat, and bakery items. We’ve also made a number of improvements to our products–such as removing added MSG, certified synthetic colors and partially hydrogenated oils from all of our ALDI exclusive brand foods. But one thing that hasn’t changed is that our customers still save money on the groceries they buy the most.” 

This investment will cover over 1,300 stores within the U.S. According to a press release, the remodel will update the chain’s look to a modern design and expand on the chain’s current offerings; including a focus on a more robust produce section.

Forbes reported that in addition to highlighting fresh, the format will also house a refrigerated air case to show off value-added products. The remodel will also offer larger dairy and bakery sections, as well as more SKUs throughout the store.

“ALDI customers know we stand out from our competitors for a reason: we offer high-quality, affordable food that they can feel good about serving their families,” added Hart. “Our unmatched combination of exceptional quality and everyday low prices is why we’re one of the fastest growing retailers in the U.S., currently operating in 35 states.”

Along with a bigger layout for its stores, the chain will now boast open ceilings, natural lighting, and building materials that save energy and utilize recycled materials. This new fresh-minded store format first started being introduced to the buy-side sector last year in select locations, with the chain remaining consistently focused on fresh.

The company still plans to open 650 stores across the nation, stating that it’s planning for a total of 2,000 spanning U.S. soil by the end of next year.

With fresh top-of-mind and more expansions in the immediate future, look to AndNowUKnow for the latest Aldi news.

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