Aldi customers are now discovering that select stores are equipped with in-store bakeries, prompting comparisons to rival supermarket Lidl. The discount retailer has been testing these bakeries since 2019, and they are now operational in 25 stores. A shopper shared her surprise on the Aldi UK Shoppers Facebook page upon finding a bakery at her local Aldi in Gosport, Hampshire.
The news sparked a flurry of reactions from other shoppers, with many expressing a desire for their nearby Aldi to have a bakery as well. Some customers drew parallels between Aldi’s new bakery section and Lidl’s well-known bakery offerings, with mixed opinions on the development.
In a strategic move, Aldi recently disclosed a list of priority locations across the UK for new store openings as part of a substantial £650 million investment this year. The company is seeking sites capable of accommodating a 20,000 sq ft store with approximately 100 parking spaces, strategically located near main roads for optimal visibility and accessibility.
Additionally, Aldi is scouting locations for its Aldi Local store format in Central London zones one and two, with specific space requirements. The supermarket also announced plans to open ten new stores this summer, including locations in Surrey, South Yorkshire, and London.
Jonathan Neale, Managing Director of National Real Estate at Aldi UK, emphasized the company’s commitment to providing high-quality, affordable food to communities in need. Aldi has also implemented pay raises for store assistants, with hourly rates now starting at £12.75 and £14.05 within the M25, and further increases planned for September 2025.
By engaging with public feedback and demand, Aldi aims to expand its store network strategically, ensuring accessibility to quality products while supporting its workforce with competitive wages.