Overview
- Aldi confirmed the first 2026 sites in Southam, Hastings and Amersham as it targets 40 openings funded by a £370 million spend.
- The programme sits within a £1.6 billion, two‑year expansion aimed at progressing toward a long‑term network of 1,500 UK stores from roughly 1,060 today.
- The retailer published a nationwide pipeline of desired locations across regions including the North West, Yorkshire, Scotland and South Wales.
- Aldi cited research that families in more than 200 towns pay up to £2,437 extra a year without access to a budget grocer, reinforcing its case for expansion.
- Store pay will rise from 1 March 2026 to £13.35 an hour nationally (up to £14.30 with service) and £14.71 inside the M25 (rising to £15.03), alongside active recruitment and apprenticeships.