Aldi Opens First Store Built Entirely From Timber

The pilot project, located on Karl-Heinz-Kipp-Straße in the Alzey Industrial Estate, aims to redefine contemporary retail through its innovative construction and commitment to environmental responsibility.

The sustainable store offers an enhanced shopping experience across approximately 1,100 square metres, featuring wide aisles, the standard product range, and a bright, inviting atmosphere created by the warm timber interior, according to a statement by the Municipality of Alzey.

Sustainability Focus

The retailer used around 150 tonnes of locally sourced wood, in addition to repurposing 13 truckloads of furniture from the previous site, according to the Municipality of Alzey.

Two photovoltaic systems – one from the original store, and another salvaged from a demolished Aldi branch – have been installed on the roof.

These systems cover a significant portion of the store’s electricity requirements, including power for refrigeration and technical equipment.

Additionally, the store also incorporates a heat pump and electric vehicle-charging stations.

Rapid Development

The project took only 18 months, from the initial concept to the opening, with the actual construction and demolition completed in just six months.

Gregor Leier, director of real estate management at Aldi Süd, highlighted that timber construction was key to this efficiency, adding that more stores of this type are likely to follow.

Alzey’s mayor, Steffen Jung, praised Aldi for choosing the city for such a significant pilot project, noting its importance in showcasing sustainable retail development.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, a branch of the German shoe retailer Görtz is set to open in the car park.

Aldi also has further plans for its existing store on Schafhäuser Straße, also in Alzey.

A new store will be developed there alongside residential buildings – a joint project with the city, designed to integrate retail with urban development.