Aldi to open 130 new stores and source more British produce

Aldi said one of its fundamental purposes is supporting British farming
Aldi said one of its fundamental purposes is supporting British farming

Aldi is to create 5,000 jobs and source more British produce when it opens 130 new stores in the UK over the next two years.

The announcement comes as Aldi revealed that sales grew 16.4% across the UK and Ireland to a record £10.2 billion in 2017. Full-year operating profit rose 26% to £265.9 million.

The UK's fifth-largest supermarket spends more than £100m a week with British farmers, who provide 100% of its fresh meat, eggs, milk and butter.

And now the retailer has confirmed it is actively seeking to source more British produce.

Giles Hurley, the chief executive of Aldi UK and Ireland, said: “The revolution in British grocery shows no sign of slowing.

“Our fundamental purpose remains - to bring outstanding quality groceries at the lowest prices for our customers, creating jobs and supporting British farming and manufacturing.

“In 2020, Aldi will have been serving British shoppers for 30 years. In that time, we’ve become part of the fabric of British life. We’re proud to be reaffirming our commitment today,” Mr Hurley said.

The chain is facing increasing pressure from Lidl and Tesco's recently announced discount retailer, Jack's.

Eight out of 10 food and drink products at Jack's will be grown, reared or made in Britain, Tesco has confirmed.