Aldi Grand Opening

[New Englander]

It looks like the new Aldi's at Trailwinds Village is scheduled to open on May 10th. It will be a welcome addition to the area. I had very good luck shopping in an Aldi's up north.

[karostay]

Finally Food at reasonable prices, no reward gimmicks , or buy one at 100% mark up get one free

[New Englander]

Finally Food at reasonable prices, no reward gimmicks , or buy one at 100% mark up get one free

You mean like Winn Dixie.

[Chatbrat]

And no boloney, rewards cards-that you need to get a product at a legitimate price--Winn-Dixie is the pits--only go there for a single item and I'm lucky if they have it-first time I went to the store in Pinellas Plaza--they did not have white clam sauce

Have only been in the store 3 times since they have opened--with their parent company in bankruptcy and with Aldi's opening across the street their days are numbered

[tomwed]

I live close to Aldi's. The best deal is the shopping carts. You can buy one for a quarter.

[coffeebean]

I live close to Aldi's. The best deal is the shopping carts. You can buy one for a quarter.

Really? You have to pay a quarter to use a shopping cart?

[tomwed]

Does Aldi sell Tilapia? Does anybody have a favorite Tilapia recipe?

[Jayhawk]

-they did not have white clam sauce



The horror.

[NotGolfer]

Really? You have to pay a quarter to use a shopping cart?

You don't lose the quarter...it's more to keep them in their place once done with it. Many times though you can give the cart to someone who needs one and they give you "their" quarter----OR----you can bless someone and tell them to pay it foreward.

[tomwed]

You don't lose the quarter...it's more to keep them in their place once done with it. Many times though you can give the cart to someone who needs one and they give you "their" quarter----OR----you can bless someone and tell them to pay it foreward.I guess I better start returning them to the store.

[Villagevip]

Does Aldi sell Tilapia? Does anybody have a favorite Tilapia recipe?

Yes! Grandmas recipe, warm it up till mush, then throw it garbage desposal ....

[Chatbrat]

I considered white clam sauce a staple for any super-market

By the way please check out all the health risks with eating Tilapia, you're probably better off eating bacon

[Blessed2BNTV]

Love Aldi’s! My shopping bags are ready to be filled.

Love the large organic selection.

[asianthree]

I find their veggies and fruit goes bad quickly compared to grocery items. Have only shopped there couple of time, not saving money if I throw it away, and waste all that water.

[tomwed]

I find their veggies and fruit goes bad quickly compared to grocery items. Have only shopped there couple of time, not saving money if I throw it away, and waste all that water.I have read that complaint in general about Aldi stores all over online. I'll buy it anyway because I usually don't stock up. I look for the products that were made in Germany, especially the mustard. I don't care for their poultry but the pork and beef is good.

[Chatbrat]

thats why their produce is cheaper , in a few days the wholesaler would most likely have to trash it if it doesn't sell, the same goes for Winn Dixie, the few times I was in the store, their produce looked very tired

[DeanFL]

PLEASE! anyone that disses Aldi - stay way from the store. It will allow more room in the parking lot and aisles for shoppers. We are Aldis appreciators.

1. Love the .25 shopping carts. One less expense and overhead costing consumers. Put your quarter in the handle, get the cart, use it, return cart to store front and get your .25 back. YOU do the cart return - not an employee. EZ & effective.

2. Few name brands, but store brands are really good - and different from the yada of the big stores.

3. Prices in general quite a bit lower, esp produce and protein. Lots of frozen foods. Very good selections.

4. The cashiers scanners are superquick and seldom need a pricecheck or bad UPC.

The not so good - Sometimes aisles have boxes or handtrucks as the shelves are continuously stocked thru the day. Some items are not in logical places in shelf areas. No Deli or onsite bakery. Sometimes, esp produce, are sold out during the day - esp sales etc. And - if you don't like to bag your own stuff, stay away from Aldis.

I truly hope this does not entice shoppers to go and clog the aisles - The Publix-lovers and WD-lovers...keep on keepin' on...

I like competition - good for consumers. Another European market is coming to the USA - LIDIS. They are building stores like mad in central east coast states, no doubt will expand to FL soon.

[karostay]

Yes! Grandmas recipe, warm it up till mush, then throw it garbage desposal ....


Why would you abuse your garbage disposal ?:pepper2:

[Chatbrat]

do you want your disposals arteries to slam shut

[tomwed]

Has anyone else experienced this in Aldi's? more customer patience? if the aisle gets clogged people seem to wait it out without complaining? the same with checkout.
It starts with the 25 cent cart hand-off.

[Abby10]

PLEASE! anyone that disses Aldi - stay way from the store. It will allow more room in the parking lot and aisles for shoppers. We are Aldis appreciators.

1. Love the .25 shopping carts. One less expense and overhead costing consumers. Put your quarter in the handle, get the cart, use it, return cart to store front and get your .25 back. YOU do the cart return - not an employee. EZ & effective.

2. Few name brands, but store brands are really good - and different from the yada of the big stores.

3. Prices in general quite a bit lower, esp produce and protein. Lots of frozen foods. Very good selections.

4. The cashiers scanners are superquick and seldom need a pricecheck or bad UPC.

The not so good - Sometimes aisles have boxes or handtrucks as the shelves are continuously stocked thru the day. Some items are not in logical places in shelf areas. No Deli or onsite bakery. Sometimes, esp produce, are sold out during the day - esp sales etc. And - if you don't like to bag your own stuff, stay away from Aldis.

I truly hope this does not entice shoppers to go and clog the aisles - The Publix-lovers and WD-lovers...keep on keepin' on...

I like competition - good for consumers. Another European market is coming to the USA - LIDIS. They are building stores like mad in central east coast states, no doubt will expand to FL soon.

Just a correction on that - I think it must be called LIDL or Lidl (not i) grocery stores. I actually never heard of it until you mentioned it in your post but since you said central east coast I had to check it out. Looks like one in DE and NJ, but none in PA yet. I'll be keeping my eye out. Thanks for the tip!

[Henryk]

And no boloney, rewards cards-that you need to get a product at a legitimate price--Winn-Dixie is the pits--only go there for a single item and I'm lucky if they have it-first time I went to the store in Pinellas Plaza--they did not have white clam sauce

Have only been in the store 3 times since they have opened--with their parent company in bankruptcy and with Aldi's opening across the street their days are numbered

I only WISH we could buy quahogs here!

I’m not aware—who’s in BK?

[Henryk]

The twenty-five cents is also an amazing lizard repellent. It keeps anoles from shoving carts and denting your car.

[thetruth]

FOR MY OPINION
Aldis is selling off brand or if you prefer private brand products. That has led other stores to also sell private brand products. IE both Winn Dixie and Publix are doing more of this. It is or shluld be less expensive than branded products. Sometimes it is sometimes it is not good VALUE.

We've bought frozen broccoli from PUBLIX and it was all tough stems. A BRAND such as Birdseye would have sent it back to whoever supplied it-they would inspect it to protect their VALUABLE BRAND. At ALDIs we have purchased some truly good cheese but we also purchased SHARP CHEDDAR that was or should have been PROCESSED AMERICAN CHEESE.

is ALDIs worth a special trip? Probably not for me but, if I'm going by anyway and it is not packed, I will likely stop in. Prices are good on milk, eggs and stuff they are promoting one the way into the store.

[fw102807]

I guess I better start returning them to the store.

Your neighbors will appreciate it.

[thetruth]

Just a correction on that - I think it must be called LIDL or Lidl (not i) grocery stores. I actually never heard of it until you mentioned it in your post but since you said central east coast I had to check it out. Looks like one in DE and NJ, but none in PA yet. I'll be keeping my eye out. Thanks for the tip!

ALDIS and LIDI are both German owned discount grocery chains.
I for one wonder WHY. We are told that food costs in the US are among the lowest in the world. I expect some of this is due to government subsidies, low land costs, scientific farming and large sized farms allowing the costly equipment used instead of labor.
Why this foreign invasion into a local business model? I wonder but, expect it has to do with TAXES and EXCHANGE RATES,

[My Post]

Some items are not in logical places in shelf areas.

I mean who puts Tilapia next to Alpo. Really.

[Abby10]

For those who aren't already aware, Aldi's and Trader Joe's are owned by the same German company. From the little that I know, TJ's got it's business plan from the Aldi model but took a more trendy path to attract a different group of consumers. In other words, I took that to mean Aldi's stuck closer to the German model when implemented here in the US and TJ's put an American twist on theirs.

Recent reports and comparisons to other retail establishments states that they pay their employees quite well. I guess that's why TJ's cashiers seem so happy when I shop there. :)

[tomwed]

The stores carry about 2,500 items, less than 10 percent of the 40,000 to 50,000 assortment found at most grocers.

Too many choices slows you down.

[Abby10]

The stores carry about 2,500 items, less than 10 percent of the 40,000 to 50,000 assortment found at most grocers.

Too many choices slows you down.

Good point. Couldn't agree more, but I guess it depends on how much one likes to shop. Not one of my favorite pastimes much to my husband's pleasure. :)

[photo1902]

And no boloney, rewards cards-that you need to get a product at a legitimate price--Winn-Dixie is the pits--only go there for a single item and I'm lucky if they have it-first time I went to the store in Pinellas Plaza--they did not have white clam sauce

Have only been in the store 3 times since they have opened--with their parent company in bankruptcy and with Aldi's opening across the street their days are numbered

But did they have your Grey Poupon???

[tomwed]

Good point. Couldn't agree more, but I guess it depends on how much one likes to shop. Not one of my favorite pastimes much to my husband's pleasure. :)That's what they figured out many years ago. You want a can of chicken soup. There's only 1 to look at and you can feel confident that it's less expensive then at the other stores. For the store it's a lot easier and takes less personnel to look after 10,000 items, in a much smaller building then 4 times as many. Save-a-lot runs that way.

[Abby10]

That's what they figured out many years ago. You want a can of chicken soup. There's only 1 to look at and you can feel confident that it's less expensive then at the other stores. For the store it's a lot easier and takes less personnel to look after 10,000 items, in a much smaller building then 4 times as many. Save-a-lot runs that way.

So that answers the question as to why so few people are needed to run the store and also why in return they can pay so well.

[tomwed]

So that answers the question as to why so few people are needed to run the store and also why in return they can pay so well.The employees do act like a team that hustles.

[New Englander]

But did they have your Grey Poupon???

:a20:

[laryb]

I shop occasionally at Aldi's for certain items that we like. I have bought the produce, and I find that it lasts as long Publix's, and probably longer than WD. Good chocolate candies from Germany and Austria, and really good yogurts. Now that they will be closer to us, I will shop there more often, but not exclusively. As far as being one with Trader Joe's, they were once owned by the Albrecht brothers, but they had a dispute, and split many years ago.

Theo Albrecht - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theo_Albrecht)

[fw102807]

I have found that the produce at Walmart on 466 is the freshest and lasts the longest.

[simpkinp]

Their German specialties are wonderful. The brand is Deutcsche Kuchen or something like that, directly from Germany. You won’t find better better sauerkraut anywhere. Some house brands are great and some awful. A few things are only available there. It is an occasional shopping place for me, but has good values.

[Abby10]

I shop occasionally at Aldi's for certain items that we like. I have bought the produce, and I find that it lasts as long Publix's, and probably longer than WD. Good chocolate candies from Germany and Austria, and really good yogurts. Now that they will be closer to us, I will shop there more often, but not exclusively. As far as being one with Trader Joe's, they were once owned by the Albrecht brothers, but they had a dispute, and split many years ago.

Theo Albrecht - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theo_Albrecht)

Thanks for the additional info about the brothers and the division. Some interesting details about their lives in the wikipedia reference.

[ColdNoMore]

Does Aldi sell Tilapia? Does anybody have a favorite Tilapia recipe?

You're a troublemaker...I like it. :1rotfl:

[ColdNoMore]

Why would you abuse your garbage disposal ?:pepper2:

Another one! :1rotfl:

[asianthree]

Has anyone else experienced this in Aldi's? more customer patience? if the aisle gets clogged people seem to wait it out without complaining? the same with checkout.
It starts with the 25 cent cart hand-off.

I try not to use any grocery aisle here. My grocery came amazon prime ordered while sitting at the pool

[patfla06]

Sorry but not an Aldi’s fan, or Trader Joe’s for that matter.

[rjn5656]

I had a Aldi's back. Never impressed.

[graciegirl]

I guess I better start returning them to the store.

:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

Good morning Tom.

What would we do without you?

[Two Bills]

Is the new store going to be Golf cart accessible?

[JSR22]

Not golf cart accessible. Located in Trailwinds.

[tomwed]

:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

Good morning Tom.

What would we do without you?
Aldi's has low overhead [so don't wear your heels].

[rustyp]

Does Aldi sell Tilapia? Does anybody have a favorite Tilapia recipe?

Yes they sell tilapia. It's in the chicken section of the food cooler. A favorite of mine is tilapia tetrazzini. Goes great with a side of kibbles and bits.

[Two Bills]

Not golf cart accessible. Located in Trailwinds.

Thank you.

[Retiring]

Does Aldi sell Tilapia? Does anybody have a favorite Tilapia recipe?

Who doesn’t love tilapia. The fish that lives on the poop of other fish. I love the poop fish. When I eat it I think of all the fish poop I’ve just eaten and I want to…

Keeps ya regular. :)

[laryb]

25 Reasons to Buy Real Food at ALDI (https://www.kitchenstewardship.com/reasons-real-real-foodies-shop-aldi/)

[Chatbrat]

Living wage on 25 hrs a week, too much hype too be true--think about it if you worked for Aldi's until retirement--do you think you could afford to live here?

[Daddymac]

There will have inflated Price also,, ITS JUST THE THING IN. TV
GOOD LUCK GETTING A GOOD DEAL,!!!

[laryb]

I know someone who lost their job at Publix because their position was over 30 hrs a week, and they received benefits. Most jobs down here don't give you benefits, so I assume the workers at Aldi's like getting something. Also, I might be wrong, but I don't think the majority of workers there plan on retiring there.

[Toymeister]

My daughter worked at Aldis during college. At the time minimum wage was 7.XX an hour and she made 10.00. They worked hard, they are required to scan a certain speed at the register or they are gone. It does mean some people without hussle cannot make It. They did offer a 401k. The managers can make 90K or more but they must keep moving from task to task quickly and work 60 hours a week or so. There is a sense of teamwork, it is very noticeable to your coworkers if you are not pulling your weight.

Overall she thought it was a great place to work if your skill set ends at the public school level.

[EdFNJ]

For those who aren't already aware, Aldi's and Trader Joe's are owned by the same German company. From the little that I know, TJ's got it's business plan from the Aldi model but took a more trendy path to attract a different group of consumers. In other words, I took that to mean Aldi's stuck closer to the German model when implemented here in the US and TJ's put an American twist on theirs.

Recent reports and comparisons to other retail establishments states that they pay their employees quite well. I guess that's why TJ's cashiers seem so happy when I shop there. :)


Aldi vs. Trader Joe's: How Are They Related? | ALDI REVIEWER (https://www.aldireviewer.com/2017/12/21/aldi-trader-joes-related/)

[Abby10]

Aldi vs. Trader Joe's: How Are They Related? | ALDI REVIEWER (https://www.aldireviewer.com/2017/12/21/aldi-trader-joes-related/)

Good additional info......thanks.

[laryb]

Just got back from Aldi's on 466A. A lot bigger and nicer than the Aldi's on 441.

[JerryLBell]

Maybe it's just the particular Aldi's I've been to, but I've never really liked any of the products I've ever bought there. Still, I'm glad it's here as I know the chain has its fans and hope it does well. Any business that does well just increases the likelihood of other business here that I'm more interested in. The wife would love a Trader Joes and a Whole Foods as they both have some goat cheeses she likes (she can't eat cheese made from cow milk). And of course we'd love to have Costco come here as well. So far, it seems as though these companies still think The Villages can't support them, especially when the snowbirds have gone home to roost for the summer. The way we're growing, I'm not sure they are right on this.

[New Englander]

Just got back from Aldi's on 466A. A lot bigger and nicer than the Aldi's on 441.

It's not suppose to open until May 10th.

[tomwed]

ALDI - The Villages, FL - Hours & Weekly Ad (https://www.storeopeninghours.com/aldi-the-villages-fl)
maybe he was commenting on the building itself---i was going to make the trip for food

[Dan9871]

ALDI - The Villages, FL - Hours & Weekly Ad (https://www.storeopeninghours.com/aldi-the-villages-fl)
maybe he was commenting on the building itself---i was going to make the trip for food

It had a soft opening today... we bought a few items there today. Don't know if it will be open tomorrow.

[laryb]

It's not suppose to open until May 10th.Probably a soft opening, but to many fresh items to not be open again for ten days.

[New Englander]

Well Aldi is open. Thursday afternoon I went in and did some shopping. There were plenty of customers but it wasn't mobbed. This is a great addition to this section of TV. Aldi will certainly hurt Winn Dixie. It looks like ABC Liquors will be opening soon as well. If you've never shopped Aldi, bring your own bags and a quarter for the carriage.

[Blessed2BNTV]

Ssshhhhhh.....Aldi’s is open and is different from others I have been in. Little more upscale with nicer graphics (hey that was my business - marketing).

Think they may want to get the “kinks” out before grand opening on May 10th.

It is a lovely store. I am an Aldi’s fan.

[karostay]

Ssshhhhhh.....Aldi’s is open and is different from others I have been in. Little more upscale with nicer graphics (hey that was my business - marketing).

Think they may want to get the “kinks” out before grand opening on May 10th.

It is a lovely store. I am an Aldi’s fan.

No rent or % of sales being Paid to the Villages = Lower Prices

[tomwed]

Well Aldi is open. Thursday afternoon I went in and did some shopping. There were plenty of customers but it wasn't mobbed. This is a great addition to this section of TV. Aldi will certainly hurt Winn Dixie. It looks like ABC Liquors will be opening soon as well. If you've never shopped Aldi, bring your own bags and a quarter for the carriage.Can't you buy bags? You can take empty boxes too which saves them time and money. They don't miss a trick. When does the dollar tree open?

[NotGolfer]

Ssshhhhhh.....Aldi’s is open and is different from others I have been in. Little more upscale with nicer graphics (hey that was my business - marketing).

Think they may want to get the “kinks” out before grand opening on May 10th.

It is a lovely store. I am an Aldi’s fan.

I agree! We drove over last night to check it out. It definitely has a nicer lay-out than previous ones...plus larger too. I think it will be a nice addition to our area!!! It will be mobbed once folks "discover" it AND when the snowbirds/renters return.

[CFrance]

Probably a soft opening, but to many fresh items to not be open again for ten days.
Your dog... fantastic. I'm in love.

Okay,carry on.

[Chi33]

I don't carry a quarter on me, or any change. I grab the phone and wallet and go. It's a little thing, but not worth the hassle for nothing that is special. I would rather give a dollar bill or a CC swipe, or buy a card to get a cart... a quarter is... like the 1970s.

[retiredguy123]

I don't carry a quarter on me, or any change. I grab the phone and wallet and go. It's a little thing, but not worth the hassle for nothing that is special. I would rather give a dollar bill or a CC swipe, or buy a card to get a cart... a quarter is... like the 1970s.
I agree. Two things will keep me away, the quarter thing and no plastic bags. It's like they don't want customers. I will still shop at Publix and Walmart.

[CFrance]

I don't carry a quarter on me, or any change. I grab the phone and wallet and go. It's a little thing, but not worth the hassle for nothing that is special. I would rather give a dollar bill or a CC swipe, or buy a card to get a cart... a quarter is... like the 1970s.
This is the modus operandi in Europe (where Aldi started) and has been for decades. It's sooooooo nice not to have any grocery carts banging around loose in the parking lot because people were too lazy to return them to the cart return spot 20 feet away.. We keep a coin in the car's coin bin. Easy peazy. Easier than swiping a card or giving a dollar bill, IMO.

[Polar Bear]

...It's sooooooo nice not to have any grocery carts banging around loose in the parking lot because people were too lazy to return them to the cart return spot 20 feet away...
Honest question. I’m new to Aldi...even after ‘renting’ the cart for a quarter, can’t customers still wheel the cart to their car after shopping?

[Roll With It]

I love Aldi. Can't beat the prices or the quality. It's really nice to sometimes just pass the shopping cart along to someone else and let them keep their quarter. I like to pay it forward.

[CFrance]

Honest question. I’m new to Aldi...even after ‘renting’ the cart for a quarter, can’t customers still wheel the cart to their car after shopping?
Yes. You take the cart to your car, unload your groceries, then take the cart back to the cart station. When you push the cart into the cart in front of it, there is a key on a chain on the cart in front of you. You insert that key into the slot on your cart's handle, and your coin pops out. Put the coin back in your car and leave it there for the next time.

[Fredster]

I love Aldi. Can't beat the prices or the quality. It's really nice to sometimes just pass the shopping cart along to someone else and let them keep their quarter. I like to pay it forward.

:agree:

[Madelaine Amee]

I love Aldi. Can't beat the prices or the quality. It's really nice to sometimes just pass the shopping cart along to someone else and let them keep their quarter. I like to pay it forward.

Many mornings I will get a cart from someone who says "have a blessed day and pass this on" and I do. The smile on the face of the recipient is all the thanks you need.

[Roll With It]

Have a blessed day. Beautiful.

[tomwed]

Yes. You take the cart to your car, unload your groceries, then take the cart back to the cart station. When you push the cart into the cart in front of it, there is a key on a chain on the cart in front of you. You insert that key into the slot on your cart's handle, and your coin pops out. Put the coin back in your car and leave it there for the next time.More often then not after you unload someone just coming in hands you a quarter and takes your cart. win,win
[i guess others have already said this many times]

[retiredguy123]

This is the modus operandi in Europe (where Aldi started) and has been for decades. It's sooooooo nice not to have any grocery carts banging around loose in the parking lot because people were too lazy to return them to the cart return spot 20 feet away.. We keep a coin in the car's coin bin. Easy peazy. Easier than swiping a card or giving a dollar bill, IMO.
So, if you don't mind spending a quarter, can you just leave the cart at your car, or is that considered rude? Then, someone can come along and get a free quarter. When I go to Publix, I always park next to a cart return station, so I don't have to return it anywhere. And, why don't they have plastic bags like everyone else? I really don't care how they do it in Europe.

[Madelaine Amee]

So, if you don't mind spending a quarter, can you just leave the cart at your car, or is that considered rude? Then, someone can come along and get a free quarter. When I go to Publix, I always park next to a cart return station, so I don't have to return it anywhere. And, why don't they have plastic bags like everyone else? I really don't care how they do it in Europe.

Cost cutting. Bring your bags.

[eweissenbach]

I agree. Two things will keep me away, the quarter thing and no plastic bags. It's like they don't want customers. I will still shop at Publix and Walmart.

Everyone has the right to shop where they choose, for whatever reason they choose. A $100 cart of groceries at Publix will cost you $60 or less at Aldi with equal to greater quality. As for me I'll lend them the quarter and find a box.

[NoMoSno]

You can buy a bag for pennies, not sure if they are plastic or paper tho.

[tomwed]

Cost cutting. Bring your bags.
They sell bags for a dime. I wouldn't encourage anyone to shop there. What I find interesting is that the container looks like the name brand and sounds like it too. Look at the beer. They have one that looks and sounds like Carona and another like Heineken. It's like a montr python skit.

v=GaQPygwTVT8

[retiredguy123]

With all these Villagers spending $20-30 for lunch at the country clubs, it really seems ridiculous to try to save a quarter on a cart or a few pennies on plastic bags.

[tomwed]

With all these Villagers spending $20-30 for lunch at the country clubs, it really seems ridiculous to try to save a quarter on a cart or a few pennies on plastic bags.I think you're putting everyone on. You have a gift.

[NoMoSno]

I agree. Two things will keep me away, the quarter thing and no plastic bags. It's like they don't want customers. I will still shop at Publix and Walmart.

With all these Villagers spending $20-30 for lunch at the country clubs, it really seems ridiculous to try to save a quarter on a cart or a few pennies on plastic bags.
Then you should stick with Walmart.

[CFrance]

So, if you don't mind spending a quarter, can you just leave the cart at your car, or is that considered rude? Then, someone can come along and get a free quarter. When I go to Publix, I always park next to a cart return station, so I don't have to return it anywhere. And, why don't they have plastic bags like everyone else? I really don't care how they do it in Europe.
It was just an explanation for the fee for the cart, and my opinion as to why it works well. You could do whatever you want. Have at it; I don't really care, except for your leaving your cart in somebody else's way because you might have to walk several feet to return it. There are only so many parking places near the cart return at Publix or Winn-Dixie. I try to park next to one but often don't find a spot open.

[CFrance]

Everyone has the right to shop where they choose, for whatever reason they choose. A $100 cart of groceries at Publix will cost you $60 or less at Aldi with equal to greater quality. As for me I'll lend them the quarter and find a box.
True,and you're only lending them the quarter for as long as it takes you to shop. Not dodging left-behind carts in the parking lot, either.

[ColdNoMore]

They sell bags for a dime. I wouldn't encourage anyone to shop there. What I find interesting is that the container looks like the name brand and sounds like it too. Look at the beer. They have one that looks and sounds like Carona and another like Heineken. It's like a montr python skit.

Not saying Aldi's is the same, but my son learned a hard, but valuable, lesson... along those lines.

He was in Mexico and found a smoking deal on a pair of high-end/expensive... Oakley sunglasses.

After wearing them for an hour though, he noticed that something (the distortion they had)...wasn't quite right.

It became apparent when he took them off, looked closely at the name...and they said "Oakey." :1rotfl:

He also failed to notice the sign in the store, where he bought them, that said..."NO returns, NO credit." :D

[JSR22]

Not saying Aldi's is the same, but my son learned a hard, but valuable, lesson... along those lines.

He was in Mexico and found a smoking deal on a pair of high-end/expensive... Oakley sunglasses.

After wearing them for an hour though, he noticed that something (the distortion they had)...wasn't quite right.

It became apparent when he took them off, looked closely at the name...and they said "Oakey." :1rotfl:

He also failed to notice the sign in the store, where he bought them, that said..."NO returns, NO credit." :D

We just returned from Aldi's and will not return. Their brand names are very misleading. Regular brand names were pretty much within pennies of Publix.

[Bigben007]

They have a lot of generic products and they are called generic for a reason.

[retiredguy123]

I think you're putting everyone on. You have a gift.
Not really. But, this Aldi's thing feels like a slippery slope to me. Who else charges for carts or plastic bags? How long will it take for other stores to do the same thing. I want more service, not less, especially in a retirement community.

[geofitz13]

You don't "pay" for the cart. You put a quarter in the slot, and when you are done, return the cart and get the quarter back. No carts left around the parking lot to cause damage or be in the way. Their generic products can be hit or miss, you learn what you like and don't like. Bring your own bags, far less waste to get dumped into a landfill. Aldi's is not perfect, but it has a niche.

[tomwed]

Talk about service. A friend of mine works at Publix. Way back when I shopped there and only had a couple of bags. The young person who bagged asked me if I wanted them to push the cart to my car and unload. I don't need that help.

My friend told me that the kid or whoever offered me that wants to help me for friendly/selfish reasons. It get's them out of the building, they get to talk to someone and it feels like a little break. I went back again but I just couldn't let someone do what I can do for myself. I may need that someday so I'm glad publix offers.

Who pays for all the extra workers to load the free bags, carry them to my car and collect the carts?

[Bavarian]

ALDIS and LIDI are both German owned discount grocery chains.
I for one wonder WHY. We are told that food costs in the US are among the lowest in the world. I expect some of this is due to government subsidies, low land costs, scientific farming and large sized farms allowing the costly equipment used instead of labor.
Why this foreign invasion into a local business model? I wonder but, expect it has to do with TAXES and EXCHANGE RATES,

Aldi is a German discount food store Alfred Discount" Lidl had a good sale on Ritter Sport 1Euro/Stueck.

Aldi is run like a German Store, all have quarter/Euro/DM holder, or you can buy a key ring with a pull out coin with your initial. I prefer Kaufland but Krone in same store was better.

Aldi here is always out of stock of advertised items.

I will continue to stock up in Bayern.

[retiredguy123]

You don't "pay" for the cart. You put a quarter in the slot, and when you are done, return the cart and get the quarter back. No carts left around the parking lot to cause damage or be in the way. Their generic products can be hit or miss, you learn what you like and don't like. Bring your own bags, far less waste to get dumped into a landfill. Aldi's is not perfect, but it has a niche.
I don't agree that you don't pay for the cart. They don't have cart return stations in the parking lot, like they do at almost every other store, even the discount stores. Aldi's expects you to return the cart to the store. Other stores hire people to return the carts to the store. Also, other stores will put your purchases in a bag, which makes perfect sense to me. It has been an expected and standard service for more than a hundred years. And, I am fine with the bags going into a landfill.

[Abby10]

Not really. But, this Aldi's thing feels like a slippery slope to me. Who else charges for carts or plastic bags? How long will it take for other stores to do the same thing. I want more service, not less, especially in a retirement community.

It also has to do with being able to run a store efficiently and with less personnel. Thereby passing on a lower cost to the customers PLUS being able to pay their employees quite well compared to competitors. It is definitely a concept that has worked so far in both Europe and the US, but not all of us like the same shopping experience and that's okay. We are fortunate in this country to have so many choices.

[tomwed]

Does anyone remember what a gallon of milk costs in each store?

[tomwed]

Aldi is a German discount food store Alfred Discount" Lidl had a good sale on Ritter Sport 1Euro/Stueck.

Aldi is run like a German Store, all have quarter/Euro/DM holder, or you can buy a key ring with a pull out coin with your initial. I prefer Kaufland but Krone in same store was better.

Aldi here is always out of stock of advertised items.

I will continue to stock up in Bayern.
They don't sell sausages in Aldis. What they do sell is the worst.

[ColdNoMore]

It also has to do with being able to run a store efficiently and with less personnel. Thereby passing on a lower cost to the customers PLUS being able to pay their employees quite well compared to competitors. It is definitely a concept that has worked so far in both Europe and the US, but not all of us like the same shopping experience and that's okay. We are fortunate in this country to have so many choices.

Not because I necessarily thought you weren't correct, but more because I'm one who prefers facts over feelings/emotions...I decided to look your statement up.

I am pleased to see that it's true (at least at the managerial level)...and I'm guessing also at the non-manager positions. :thumbup:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/derosetichy/2013/08/13/why-aldi-is-giving-walmart-a-run-for-its-money/#7187ba3245dc

As the last month of summer winds down, and with recent university graduates full steam ahead on their job hunt, discount retailer ALDI is making an offer that will likely grab some attention – a starting pay of $75,000 along with some perks, including a corporate credit card, Toyota Camry and paid gas for both professional and personal use.

Why is ALDI’s U.S. operation paying so much? This starting pay comes with a job description similar to a small business owner – and similar hours too. The new graduates, who are hired directly into District Manager positions, are expected to manage a staff of thirty to fifty people, while mastering operational details (such as how many avocados to order) in order to continue making the company’s low-price, high-efficiency business model hum.

Ultimately, the chance for real leadership development may be the more important offer from ALDI. For any new graduate, the choice of which job to take out of college is usually about more than money. At a time when nearly half of college graduates are working jobs that don’t require a degree, their first professional job is an opportunity to develop leadership skills and accumulate experiences that will inform their judgment for the rest of their careers.

Although ALDI’s parent company in Germany is notoriously secretive, the U.S. division has been very transparent about what it expects of its well-paid talent.

Although I like Publix because of the convenient location, and don't even look at prices or use coupons when I grocery shop (flame-suit on...:D), I'll be willing to give Aldi's a chance...just because of their decent treatment of employees. :cool:

A pet peeve of mine is change (I usually donate it somewhere at the counter...e.g.-jar/cause/for the next person to use/etc.), so I guess I'll just have to remember...to stuff a quarter in my shoe for the cart. :1rotfl:

[ColdNoMore]

They don't sell sausages in Aldis. What they do sell is the worst.

You're a real bratwurst...aren't you? :1rotfl:

[Geo&Ter]

Constantly amazed on people giving their dissertation on why they don't like this or that over a quarter. Really? Are these the major problems in your lives? Not just this subject but anywhere else on this site.

[tomwed]

Constantly amazed on people giving their dissertation on why they don't like this or that over a quarter. Really? Are these the major problems in your lives? Not just this subject but anywhere else on this site.My guess is that no one wants to talk online in a public forum about all the major problems in their life.

I'll bet most of the people who write did not have the time to write when they were younger because they were going to school, serving, working and raising kids and taking care of parents. And for some this may be the first time in their life they have the time.

I feel sorry for children who spend any time checking their facebook accounts and text messaging. We didn't.

"As smartphones and other mobile devices have become more widespread, 26% of American adults now report that they go online “almost constantly,” up from 21% in 2015, according to a Pew Research Center survey conducted in January 2018.

Overall, 77% of Americans go online on a daily basis. That figure includes the 26% who go online almost constantly, as well as 43% who say they go online several times a day and 8% who go online about once a day. Some 11% go online several times a week or less often, while 11% of adults say they do not use the internet at all."

Writing, doing research, troubleshooting, sharing recipes keeps you engaged and communicating with others. Even with an online connection that feels pretty good. Don't you think we earned it?

Is this your first post?

[New Englander]

The other day I shopped at the new Aldi's. I bought a steak and the fixings for a salad among other things. I had both for my Sunday dinner and it was excellent! Personally it's no big deal for me to keep a quarter in my car, bring my reusable shopping bags with me and walk that enormous 75 feet to return the cart and get my quarter back. I kinda like to save money, but that's me. Do people really spend 20-30 $$$ for lunch?

[tomwed]

Do people really spend 20-30 $$$ for lunch?
some do
and it may be that most do

[ColdNoMore]

Do people really spend 20-30 $$$ for lunch?
some do and it may be that most do

I rarely spend that amount on lunch, as usually I'm dining...with at least one other person besides myself.






:D

[Bavarian]

Even the Department Stores in Germany charge for Plastic Bags. Save the enviroment. First thing we do when we go is put our plastic bags in the trunk. You don't get free bags at Sams, BJS, IKEA usw.

[Madelaine Amee]

Just back from shopping the new Trailwinds Aldi's and very impressed. Great layout with huge selection of items. Will be difficult to decide whether to go back to 441 or take a great drive through TV to shop at this Aldi's. Oh my, decisions decisions!

One thing stood out to my otherhalf - much bigger than usual parking spaces so you can actually pull your cart down between the cars to unload. I always have a freezer box in the back of the car and it was very convenient to move from the cart to the car. They don't have that in Europe :boom:

[CFrance]

Just back from shopping the new Trailwinds Aldi's and very impressed. Great layout with huge selection of items. Will be difficult to decide whether to go back to 441 or take a great drive through TV to shop at this Aldi's. Oh my, decisions decisions!

One thing stood out to my otherhalf - much bigger than usual parking spaces so you can actually pull your cart down between the cars to unload. I always have a freezer box in the back of the car and it was very convenient to move from the cart to the car. They don't have that in Europe :boom:
Madeleine, you might not have to make that decision. I read that they are remodeling the 441 Aldi's.

[Madelaine Amee]

Does anyone remember what a gallon of milk costs in each store?

Yes I do - Aldi's milk this morning is $2.49 per gallon. Publix milk is or was (last week) $3.79.

I buy staples - milk, eggs, butter, cream, along with other weekly items and almost everything is at least $1 cheaper than Publix. I really like Publix and shop there for brand names I want, but if I can save a dollar an item on things I buy every week I am going to shop Aldi's.

But, why are we arguing over shopping for groceries, we have numerous stores to shop and we are extremely fortunate to have so many choices. TO EACH THEIR OWN!

[ColdNoMore]

Just back from shopping the new Trailwinds Aldi's and very impressed. Great layout with huge selection of items. Will be difficult to decide whether to go back to 441 or take a great drive through TV to shop at this Aldi's. Oh my, decisions decisions!

One thing stood out to my otherhalf - much bigger than usual parking spaces so you can actually pull your cart down between the cars to unload. I always have a freezer box in the back of the car and it was very convenient to move from the cart to the car. They don't have that in Europe :boom:

Good to hear, because that is one thing...that is a huge pet peeve of mine. :oops:


In fact, I think Sam's Club is probably one of the the worst...for trying to get a cart between vehicles. :mad:

[Madelaine Amee]

Madeleine, you might not have to make that decision. I read that they are remodeling the 441 Aldi's.

Yes they are, should be open again in May, but the new one at Trailwinds is absolutely gorgeous. You are going to love it when you get back.

[Toymeister]

Made 75 cents on my last trip to Aldi returning carts. This could be my new part time job!

[John_W]

Good News to real sub lovers! I spoke to Randy the manager of Jersey's Mike's in Lady Lake yesterday and he said they are definitely going into the rental building under construction between Aldi's and ABC Liquor. Unfortunately Randy the manager, who was going to operate the new location, after five years is leaving the Lady Lake JM's and moving to Melbourne, Florida to be near family. Just so happens the manager of the Melbourne Jersey Mike's wants to move to this area and so Randy and that manager are switching places June 1st. Good Luck to Randy!

https://cdn4.gbot.me/photos/i8/7Y/1370571813/-_Jersey_Mike_s_Subs_in_My-20000000005891899-500x375.jpg

[tomwed]

An ABC store next to a Jersey sub shop next to Aldi's, all a mile away. Forgive me, I'm getting verklempt.