Aldi has revealed ambitious expansion plans for 2026, with a £370 million investment set to bring 15 new stores to London alongside dozens more across the UK. This significant move forms part of the discount retailer's broader strategy to enhance accessibility to budget-friendly groceries nationwide.
A Strategic Push for Greater London Presence
The supermarket giant has identified multiple key locations within the capital earmarked for new outlets. Proposed sites include Chiswick, Notting Hill, Kensington, Watford, Hackney Central, and Lewisham, among others. This development is a core component of Aldi's previously announced £1.6 billion two-year investment blueprint, aiming to push the retailer closer to its long-term target of operating 1,500 stores across the country.
Addressing the 'Grocery Gap' in Communities
Giles Hurley, Chief Executive Officer at Aldi UK and Ireland, emphasised the company's mission. "Our unwavering commitment is to make high-quality, affordable groceries accessible to everybody," he stated. "We recognise that there are still areas without an Aldi store, so our 2026 expansion plans are designed to address some of these gaps. We've always believed that access to high-quality affordable food is a right, not a privilege."
This focus is underscored by recent Aldi research indicating that families in over 200 British towns spend up to £2,437 more annually on their weekly shop due to a lack of a nearby budget supermarket.
Recognition and Investment in People
Aldi's value proposition continues to receive external validation. Consumer champion Which? has named it Britain's cheapest supermarket for five consecutive years. Furthermore, the retailer recently secured The Grocer's 'Super Grocer 33' award for a seventh year running, based on a head-to-head price comparison of a standard shopping basket.
Complementing its store expansion, Aldi is also investing in its workforce. From 1 March 2026, pay rates will increase, with Store Assistants nationwide receiving £13.35 per hour (rising to £14.30 with service), and those inside the M25 receiving £14.71 per hour (rising to £15.03 with service).
Nationwide Expansion Ambitions
Beyond London, Aldi has published an extensive list of locations across the UK where it seeks to open new stores. This nationwide rollout highlights the scale of its 2026 ambitions.
Key Target Regions Include:
- Scotland: Areas such as Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Falkirk.
- North West England: Including Manchester, Wigan, and Bolton.
- Central & West Midlands: Targeting Birmingham, Coventry, and Wolverhampton.
- South East England: With locations like Brighton, Guildford, and Worthing.
- South Wales & South West: Covering Bristol, Cardiff, and Plymouth.
The expansion follows a busy 2025 for Aldi, which saw the opening of numerous new branches, including recent launches in Kirkintilloch, Eastbourne, Fulham Broadway, and Deeside. The retailer's sustained growth reflects its competitive positioning in the UK grocery market and its response to consumer demand for value without compromising on quality.
