Is this public callout just good PR — or a smart retail strategy?
Aldi is asking UK shoppers to help choose where it should open new stores next. Customers are being invited to send in suggestions by email, with the most popular areas set to be considered for future expansion.
It’s a bold move — but also a familiar one. Aldi ran a similar campaign last year, and it worked. Sites in London, Manchester and Derbyshire were shortlisted, and the retailer is already planning a new store near Chesterfield.
This time, Aldi is aiming even higher. The chain currently operates more than 1,050 stores in the UK but wants to reach 1,500. New openings are already planned for Ashford, Eastbourne and Caterham, showing a strong focus on growing in the South East.
Why it matters:
Smart market research:
This isn’t just about public feedback — it’s about free data. Every email submission tells Aldi where real demand exists, postcode by postcode.Targeting high-income areas:
Aldi’s push into the South East isn’t random. It’s a direct challenge to premium players like Waitrose and M&S.Building local loyalty:
By giving the public a say, Aldi creates a sense of ownership — and earns headlines at the same time.
What Aldi says:
“We’ve always believed that great quality food should be within everyone’s reach,” said Jonathan Neale, Managing Director of National Real Estate at Aldi UK. “We want to hear directly from the public about where the demand is greatest.”
How to take part:
Send an email to [email protected]
Put the town name in the subject line
Deadline: Sunday 8th June
Aldi says the results will help shape its next round of store openings, with new locations to be revealed later this year.
GSN takeaway:
Aldi isn’t just expanding — it’s turning store planning into a national conversation. And it’s doing it while gathering data, building loyalty, and applying pressure on the competition.