The website EatThis.com, AKA Eat This, Not That!, published an article last week citing the major differences between German-based discount retailers Aldi and Lidl. Here’s a summary.
Footprint: Although the two retailers have similar business models, Aldi has been in the U.S. far longer than Lidl. Aldi’s first American store opened in 1976 and now the company has nearly 2,400 locations in 39 states, with 800 more expected over the next five years. Aldi’s website says it has over 10,000 stores overall in 10 countries.
Lidl opened its first U.S. store in 2017 and has about 170 locations in the East and Southeast. Worldwide, Lidl has more than 12,000 stores throughout 32 countries.
Baked Goods: Lidl offers fresh breads and pastries baked in its stores on a daily basis, while Aldi sells pre-packaged breads and baked goods that are delivered to stores.
Shopping Carts: Aldi requires customers to insert quarters in order to unlock them for use and then provides a refund when the carts are returned. Carts are readily available and free of charge at Lidl.
Affordability: It has been widely reported over the years that Aldi is one of the least expensive grocery chains in the United States. In fact, a recent study by BravoDeal revealed that Aldi was America’s cheapest grocery chain, while Lidl took second place. Both chains specialize in discount groceries and sell many products under private-label or store brands.
Checkout: The checkout process at Lidl is similar to what happens at a traditional supermarket. The cashier scans items and transports them down the conveyer belt to be bagged by the customer. On the other hand, Aldi cashiers scan products and place them directly into a shopping cart next to the register. Once shoppers pay for their groceries they take the cart to counters mounted on walls to bag their goods.
Product Types: The grocers are fairly similar here, although Aldi CEO Jason Hart has said that about 90% of its products are private label. It’s about 80% private label for Lidl.
Gardening Supplies: Lidl introduced a garden center at a Long Island, NY store in 2022 and now has them at 76 of its locations. They offer a variety of flowers, plants, soil, hanging baskets, and garden accessories. Aldi sells some gardening supplies and accessories on a seasonal basis, but they don’t have dedicated gardening sections like certain Lidl locations have.
