Discount supermarket Aldi takes advantage of the situation and grows as shoppers feel the pinch

Aldi Accelerates U.S. Expansion Amid Shifting Consumer Habits

Discount supermarket chain Aldi is rapidly increasing its presence across the United States, with plans to launch over 180 new locations this year. This growth comes as more Americans opt to dine at home, driven by concerns about the country's economic outlook.

Headquartered near Chicago, Aldi ramped up its expansion efforts following the surge in inflation that began in 2021, achieving a record number of store openings last year.

Although food prices are rising at a slower pace, the U.S. still saw a 2.4% increase in grocery costs last year. Aldi has capitalized on this trend, attracting shoppers who are seeking more affordable options and shifting their shopping habits to save money.

Many consumers are now choosing store-brand products over well-known labels and are frequenting discount and thrift stores instead of their usual retailers. This shift has benefited national discount chains such as Dollar General and Dollar Tree.

While this trend began prior to President Donald Trump’s trade policies, it has gained momentum over the past year.

In 2024, Aldi announced its intention to open 800 additional stores by 2028, responding to ongoing inflation concerns. Last year, the company set a new record by unveiling 225 new U.S. locations.

This week, Aldi revealed plans for new distribution centers in Florida, Arizona, and Colorado, reaffirming its commitment to invest $9 billion in its U.S. operations by 2028. The retailer also aims to open over 50 stores in Colorado within five years and intends to double its Las Vegas locations by 2030.

By the end of this year, Aldi expects to operate nearly 2,800 stores nationwide, moving closer to its target of 3,200 stores by 2028.

Traditional supermarkets are facing mounting competition from discount chains, retail giants like Walmart, and emerging players such as Amazon.com. In December, Amazon expanded its same-day delivery of perishable groceries to more than 2,300 cities and towns, with further growth planned for this year.