ALDI is allowed to remain open as supermarkets are classed as essential shops during the third lockdown.
But there are a number of rules Aldi has put in place that shoppers must follow in store, and there might be changes to the way you order your items online.
Here are the latest details on Aldi‘s opening times and what you need to know before doing your big shop.
When are Aldi branches opening and closing?
Aldi stores are now open from 8am to 10pm after store opening hours were shortened following the first lockdown.
This is to allow more customers to shop during less busier times.
The store’s busiest times are between 11am to 3pm, and the quietest times to shop are between 7pm and 10pm.
You might have to queue to get in, as the supermarket is limiting entry at busy times.
There are more than 840 stores in Britain, and you can find your nearest branch by using its store locator tool.
Does Aldi operate any special opening hours?
Every Monday to Saturday, all stores will open 30 minutes earlier than the usual opening times for elderly and vulnerable shoppers.
In England and Wales, shoppers will only be able to browse during these times.
But in Scotland, you can buy your items straight away.
Emergency service workers, including NHS, Police and Fire Service workers, are also being given priority hours in which they can shop in.
You’ll be able to access stores 30 minutes before they open to other customers on Sundays.
This also includes social workers, first responders, St John’s Ambulance staff and Age UK volunteers.
You’ll also be able to jump the queue to get in store, as long as you bring your ID showing that you are an emergency service worker.
When is the best time to shop there?
Google has a tracker which allows you to see when the peak times are.
If you search for “Aldi” and then click on your nearest store, it will show a bar chart of when the store’s busiest times are.
What should I buy when I’m there?
The Government and supermarkets have urged shoppers not to panic buy or stockpile.
Shoppers are also being encouraged not to touch items unless you’re going to pay for them to limit the spread of the virus.
We have compiled a list of what you need for two weeks now that Brits have been told to stay at home.
Is there a limit on items?
During the first lockdown, Aldi implemented a four items per shopper limit on all products.
It also reduced the number of nappies, toilet paper and kitchen roll to two per person.
But these limits have since been eased, as Aldi says it feels these restrictions are not necessary now.
On its website, Aldi says product availability is good thanks to suppliers and colleagues keeping shelves full and customers only buying what they need.
Can I order online?
Yes, you can still order online, however, due to transportation restrictions of certain goods, Aldi says it has been unable to fulfil some online orders.
Aldi has also had to cancel orders to some locations due to Covid disruption.
Other than this the store’s delivery service is running as usual and does not include groceries.
It will take around three to five working days to receive your items.
A standard delivery is free for orders over £30 and costs £2.95 for orders under £30.
For £3.95, you can get a next day delivery on any order placed before 7pm on Monday-Friday.
What about click and collect?
You can order your groceries online and pick them up at the shop under Aldi’s click and collect service.
It will cost you £4.99 to use the service though.
Pick the store and time slot for when you’re wanting to pick up your items.
When you arrive, park up in a click and collect bay, reply to the text you received about your order and someone will bring your package to you.
If you’re looking for opening times for shops still open including Boots, Halfords and Poundland, here’s a list for you to check.
And here are 10 top tips to help with your Tesco shop.
Want the lowdown of what the lockdown rules are for supermarkets including Tesco, Asda and Lidl? Check out our round-up.
