Fast-growing Aldi enters big new market

Discount grocer Aldi will make its long-awaited California debut on March 24, with the opening of eight Southland stores. But that’s just the beginning of the company’s expansion plans for the market.



In all, Aldi plans to open approximately 45 stores in Southern California by the end of 2016. The opening of Aldi in California is part of the company's five-year strategic plan to open 650 new stores across the nation. By the end of 2018, the grocer expects to operate nearly 2,000 stores.



To help reduce its impact on the environment, Aldi will incorporate a variety of sustainable initiatives in California, including energy efficient and green building design. Stores will feature natural lighting and environmentally friendly building materials, including energy-saving refrigeration, LED lighting and solar panels on all viable roofs.



“Ever since we announced our plan to bring Aldi to Southern California, the positive response from people across the Southland has been overwhelming, and we're excited to start opening stores next month and throughout the year," said Gordon Nesbit, Moreno Valley division VP for Aldi.



Currently, Aldi operates nearly 1,500 U.S. stores in 32 states.