Aldi plans big expansion through new store openings, conversions

Aldi has announced its most ambitious expansion plans to date as it continues to grow its U.S. footprint coast to coast.

The discount grocer plans to add 800 stores nationwide by the end of 2028 through a combination of new openings and store conversions. In line with its plans, Aldi said it has completed its acquisition of Southeastern Grocers (SEG) and its Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket banners, which will drive significant growth in the Southeast region, adding approximately 400 stores throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana and Mississippi.

Aldi will invest more than $9 billion over the next five years on its expansion, adding new locations across the country. As part of its growth trajectory, the grocer will strengthen its already strong presence in the Northeast and Midwest, adding nearly 330 stores across both regions by the end of 2028. The grocer will also grow its presence in the West by adding more stores in Southern California and Phoenix — and by entering new cities such as Las Vegas.

"Our growth is fueled by our customers, and they are asking for more Aldi stores in their neighborhoods nationwide," said Jason Hart, CEO, Aldi. " With this commitment to add 800 stores in the next five years, we'll be where our shoppers need us while positively impacting the communities we serve."

In addition to organic growth through new store openings, a “significant” number of Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarkets will convert to the Aldi format over the next several years. Starting mid-summer, the Illinois-based grocer will begin a phased approach to the store conversion process, with anticipation that approximately 50 stores will begin the conversion process during the latter half of 2024, with the majority of these stores reopening as Aldi in 2025.

"With a long history of serving the Southeast, our steadfast commitment to helping our customers stretch their hard-earned dollars has remained a constant priority," said Anthony
Hucker, president and CEO, Southeastern Grocers. "As we begin this next chapter, we will
continue to deliver the quality, service and value our customers have come to expect from us."

The expansion comes after a strong 2023 for Aldi, opening 109 locations in 2023, according to JLL’s "2024 Grocery Report."

Throughout the expansion, the company says it remains committed to making a positive impact on communities and ensuring its environmental footprint doesn't grow with its store count. Aldi will build and remodel stores with sustainable features such as energy-efficient LED lighting, environmentally friendly refrigeration systems, rooftop solar systems and more.

With more than 2,200 stores in 38 states, Batavia, Ill.-based Aldi U.S. employs 45,000-plus associates.