Aldi is trialling closing an hour early on weekends in a move that will affect thousands of shoppers. The supermarket, which competes with Lidl, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, and Asda, is testing reduced hours in select stores to cut costs.
Stores to close at 9pm instead of 10pm
Under the trial, shops will close at 9pm instead of 10pm from Monday to Saturday, with no change on Sundays. A worker at the Heanor, Derbyshire, store posted on Facebook: “Please be aware that as of Monday 13th July, Aldi Heanor will be closing at 9pm instead of 10pm Monday-Saturday with no change on a Sunday, this will be on a trial basis to begin with but will likely be the new permanent opening hours thereafter.”
Cost-saving measure
The Sun reported that while 1,084 stores currently close at 10pm, around 48 already shut at 9pm. Aldi said: “As the UK’s cheapest supermarket, our commitment to customers is that they will always pay the lowest possible prices every time they shop with us. Our efficient business model means that we are always looking for new ways to pass on even greater savings to Aldi shoppers.”
Summer Support Scheme returns
The trial comes as Aldi brings back its Summer Support Scheme for a second year, helping families with school holiday costs. The scheme will give away more than £3,000 worth of Aldi vouchers throughout July and August, with one winner selected daily to receive a £50 voucher. Families can use the vouchers on fresh food, cupboard staples, household essentials, and summer treats.
Julie Ashfield, Chief Commercial Officer at Aldi UK, said: “The summer break can put extra pressure on finances, especially when it comes to keeping children fed, entertained and active during the holidays. As the UK’s cheapest supermarket, we’re committed to helping families make their money go further all year round, and this scheme is another way we’re supporting parents during one of the most expensive times of the year.”
