Aldi plans big expansion through new store openings, 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.

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.

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.

Chain Store Age