Aldi is trialling earlier closing times at a number of its UK stores, shutting at 9pm instead of 10pm from Monday to Saturday, in a bid to keep prices low. The trial, which has already been flagged in some branches via notices, is part of the discounter's ongoing efforts to pass savings on to customers.
Trial details and customer feedback
Selected branches will close an hour earlier, with the retailer saying customer feedback will help determine whether the changes are rolled out more widely. Aldi could not confirm how long the trial will run or which stores are participating, although notices have appeared in some locations. On the 'Spotted in Heanor' Facebook page, a poster claiming to be an employee at the local Aldi branch revealed the store's new opening times: '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.'
Rationale behind the change
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 added: '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, named 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.
Impact on shoppers and other changes
For customers, the trial is likely to be most noticeable for those who rely on after-work shops, late-night school runs or other commitments. Most of Aldi's more than 1,084 UK stores currently trade until 10pm, although around 48 branches already close at 9pm. 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.
Future outlook
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.
