Aldi is trialing earlier closing times at a number of UK stores in a bid to keep costs down and maintain low prices. Selected branches will shut at 9pm instead of 10pm, with the retailer saying customer feedback will help determine whether the changes are rolled out more widely.
Trial Details and Locations
When approached by Metro, Aldi were not able to confirm how long the trial will run, or which stores will be taking part — although notices are already appearing in branches. On the 'Spotted in Heanor' Facebook page, a poster claiming to be an employee at their local Aldi branch revealed the store's new opening times.
The poster wrote: 'Please be aware that as of Monday 13th July, Aldi Heanor will be closing at 9pm instead of 10pm Monday-Saturday with no change on a Sunday. This will be on a trial basis to begin with but will likely be the new permanent opening hours thereafter.'
Current Store Hours and Impact
Most of Aldi's more than 1,084 UK stores currently trade until 10pm, although around 48 branches already close at 9pm. An Aldi spokesperson told Metro that switching up the hours is part of the commitment to ensure that customers 'will always pay the lowest possible prices every time they shop with us.'
The spokesperson said: 'Our efficient business model means that we are always looking for new ways to pass on even greater savings to Aldi shoppers. As part of our efforts to make savings, we are trialling closing at 9pm instead of 10pm (Monday to Saturday) in a small number of stores to better reflect how and when our customers choose to shop. The vast majority of our stores will continue to operate their usual opening hours. As with all trials, we will be listening carefully to customer feedback before making any future decisions.'
Financial Context and Expansion Plans
The move comes as Britain's fourth-largest supermarket continues to face rising costs despite strong sales growth. Aldi, Which?'s cheapest supermarket in the UK, reported revenues of £18.1 billion for the year to December 2024, with its UK grocery market share rising to 10.8%. However, operating profits fell from £552.9 million to £435.5 million in 2023, with the retailer blaming continued price cuts, investment in stores and distribution, and higher wages.
Despite the squeeze on profits, Aldi is pressing ahead with ambitious expansion plans. The supermarket has pledged to invest £1.6 billion over two years to open 80 new stores across 2026 and 2027, refurbish existing locations and strengthen its distribution network. It ultimately aims to grow its UK estate to 1,500 stores.
Other Recent Changes
In another change, Aldi recently updated its uniform policy. Non-management store staff are no longer required to wear a name badge, although managers will still wear them. It's understood the change was made following feedback from colleagues.
