Tag: Aldi

Aldi encourages Edinburgh shoppers to support local foodbanks ahead of colder months

As the colder months approach, Aldi is reminding shoppers in Edinburgh of the most essential items to donate to foodbanks via its in-store donation points.

A list of priority items has been created based on the demands of foodbanks, charities and community groups across the UK and includes everything from tinned food to cereals and cleaning products.

According to community giving platform Neighbourly, who works with Aldi stores to redistribute customer food donations to good causes, the demand for foodbanks can increase by nearly 30%  over the colder months.

Luke Emery, National Sustainability Director at Aldi UK, said: “We know autumn and winter are busy periods for foodbanks and organisations like Neighbourly who support those in need across the UK.  

“We’re so grateful to all customers that have used our in-store donation points so far this year, and we hope this list of items will make it easy for shoppers to pick those that are most needed over the colder months.”

Steve Butterworth, CEO of Neighbourly, added: “With many foodbanks and local charities facing increased demand in the months ahead, any extra support we can get will be vital.

“By highlighting the most needed items, we hope to make it easier for Aldi shoppers to support their local communities.”

The most in-demand items are:

  • Tinned food
  • Toiletries
  • Tea / coffee
  • Breakfast cereals
  • Juices and soft drinks
  • UHT milk
  • Laundry and cleaning products
  • Rice and pasta
  • Cooking sauces / oils / condiments
  • Pet food

Aldi invites children in Edinburgh to get creative for Recycle Week

To mark Recycle Week (22nd – 28th September), Aldi is calling on children in Edinburgh & The Lothians to get creative by designing a poster to inspire people to recycle.

Britain’s fourth-largest supermarket is inviting children aged 5–14 to submit their designs for the chance to see them showcased on Aldi’s digital screens in stores nationwide.

Three winning designs – one from England, one from Scotland and one from Wales – will be chosen by a panel of Aldi’s sustainability experts and displayed in their local store.

The competition is part of Aldi’s ongoing drive to support sustainable shopping behaviours, including reducing single-use plastic and increasing recycled content in packaging.

Luke Emery, National Sustainability Director at Aldi, said: “At Aldi, we are always looking for ways to reduce waste and make recycling easier for customers. This competition is a fun way to spark children’s imagination and show that small actions can have a big impact.

“Recycling is something we can all do, but sometimes it takes a spark of creativity to bring the message to life. By asking children to share their own ideas and artwork, we hope to inspire families and communities to think differently about the choices they make every day.”

Entries open Monday 22nd September 2025 and close Friday 31st October 2025. Parents and teachers can submit a copy of children’s designs on A4 paper, alongside the name and age of the entrant, via email to recycleweek@aldi.co.uk.For more information and T&Cs, visit: LINK.

Aldi donates over 43,000 meals to local charities over summer

Aldi stores in Edinburgh and The Lothians donated over 43,000 meals to families in need throughout the recent summer holidays. 

All Edinburgh and Lothian stores aided local charities and foodbanks during the period of increased demand by redistributing surplus food through community giving platform Neighbourly.

The UK’s fourth largest supermarket has worked with Neighbourly since 2019 and has already donated more than 8.8 million meals so far this year to those in need nationwide.

Luke Emery, National Sustainability Director at Aldi UK, said: “We are proud to continue supporting incredible causes across the country this summer, helping to provide fresh, wholesome food to those who need it most.

“School holidays can be a challenging time for many families, and this summer we’re continuing our efforts to provide support where we can through our partnership with Neighbourly.”

Steve Butterworth, CEO of Neighbourly, added: “Summer holidays represent one of the busiest times of the year for charities and food banks, and this year was no different.

“Aldi’s generous donations played a key role in helping support families, and our partnership continues to make a meaningful difference to those who need it most.”

Shoppers can also donate food to local charities, food banks and community groups via the community donation points in Aldi stores nationwide. 

Britain’s fourth largest supermarket also works with Company Shop, the UK’s leading redistributor of surplus food and household products, to redistribute surplus food from its Regional Distribution Centres.  

Aldi calls on charities in Edinburgh to register for food donations

With availability at its Edinburgh stores for further charities to get involved, local organisations now have the opportunity to be paired with their local Aldi stores to collect surplus food donations regularly. 

Any organisations not already working with Neighbourly but interested in collecting unsold food from Aldi can find out more and sign up for free here. 

Luke Emery, National Sustainability Director at Aldi UK, said: “Our food donation scheme plays a vital role in ensuring that fresh and healthy food is accessible to those in need all year round, while also allowing us to redistribute surplus stock that would otherwise go to waste. 

“Our charity partners provide vital support every day, and we’re proud to work with Neighbourly to help make a positive difference in communities across the UK. As we approach what can typically be a busier period for these organisations, we’re pleased to be able to bring even more charities on board to our donations scheme.” 

Steve Butterworth, CEO of Neighbourly, added: “Local charities and community groups continue to see high demand for their services, at times with limited resources. Aldi’s surplus food donations offer practical help, and we’d love to hear from more organisations who could benefit.” 

Shoppers can also donate food to local charities, food banks and community groups via the donation points in Aldi stores nationwide. 

Britain’s fourth largest supermarket also works with Company Shop, the UK’s leading redistributor of surplus food and household products, to redistribute surplus food from its Regional Distribution Centres. 

Aldi Scotland social channels:  

Instagram – @AldiScotland              

Facebook – @AldiScotland   

Aldi Scotland’s Famous Supermarket Sweep is coming to Leith

Aldi Scotland’s Supermarket Sweep challenge is back again for another year, giving customers in Edinburgh the chance to raise funds for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).    

The supermarket challenge, inspired by the legendary game show, is sure to add excitement to the weekly shopping trip. As well as fundraising, Edinburgh locals have the chance to take home their favourite items from Aldi’s store in Leith.   

Launched in 2016, the supermarket challenge offers shoppers the chance to take part in a five-minute trolley dash, allowing them to gather as many Aldi favourites as they can within the timeframe. 

Once the time is up, the lucky shopper gets to take home the trolley full of goodies, while Aldi matches the cash value of the goods as a donation.    

Each year across Scotland CHAS supports over 500 babies, children and young people with life-shortening conditions and their families. In 2025 every penny raised through Aldi’s Supermarket Sweep will go directly to CHAS, with £10,000 pledged in support.  

Edinburgh residents can apply for the Supermarket Sweep from Monday 2 June to Sunday 8 June.     

Graham Nicolson, Group Buying Director, Aldi Scotland, said: “Our annual Supermarket Sweeps hold a special place in the Aldi calendar, donating over £50,000 to local charities since 2016.

“We’re very much looking forward to its return for another year and giving one lucky Edinburgh resident the chance to enjoy a truly unique supermarket experience.  

“CHAS is a charity very close to our hearts, which provides a truly invaluable lifeline for families across Scotland, offering specialist care and unwavering support during the most difficult moments imaginable.

“This year, Aldi Scotland’s Supermarket Sweep will be travelling all over Scotland, giving Aldi customers nationally a brilliant opportunity to raise funds for CHAS while shining a light on the incredible work the charity does.”   

Entry is free and customers can apply in-store or by emailing supermarketsweep@aldi.co.uk

Entrants must be available to take part in the sweep after stores close at 10pm on their chosen date.  

Entrants must be over 18 years old to take part, and alcohol products are not included in the sweep.   

For more information about CHAS and how to support its work, visit https://www.chas.org.uk/     

Aldi offers virtual work experience to aspiring young people in Edinburgh

Young people in Edinburgh interested in exploring a career in retail can now sign up to Aldi’s virtual work experience programme.

Open to students in the UK aged 13 and over, the free online course is designed to build skills and introduce students to the wide range of careers available in retail – from warehouse operations to office-based roles.

Created in partnership with Springpod, the programme includes a series of videos and guidance from Aldi colleagues, alongside interactive quizzes and activities.

Upon completion, participants receive a certificate to enhance their CVs or future applications.

Lisa Murphy, Training and Development Director at Aldi UK, said: “At Aldi, we understand that not everyone has access to in-person work experience. That’s why we’ve created a flexible virtual programme that allows participants to learn at their own pace, fitting around their schedules.

“This initiative not only provides young people with a real insight into what it’s like to work at Aldi but also makes it possible for them to experience this, no matter where they are in the UK.

“Since launching, we’ve already attracted more than 2,000 sign-ups and hope to inspire even more young people to explore careers in retail through this accessible and engaging platform.”

Aldi is also looking to recruit more than 500 new apprentices across the UK in 2025, with opportunities across stores and warehouse roles now live. 

Young people interested in signing up to the virtual work experience can visit:
https://www.aldirecruitment.co.uk/early-careers/apprenticeships.

Aldi Scotland’s Supermarket Sweep returns to Edinburgh

Aldi Scotland’s Supermarket Sweep challenge is back again for another year, giving customers in Edinburgh the chance to raise funds for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).

The supermarket challenge, inspired by the legendary game show, is sure to add excitement to the weekly shopping trip. As well as fundraising, Edinburgh locals have the chance to take home their favourite items from Aldi’s store in Chesser.  

Launched in 2016, the supermarket challenge offers shoppers the chance to take part in a five-minute trolley dash, allowing them to gather as many Aldi favourites as they can within the timeframe. Once the time is up, the lucky shopper gets to take home the trolley full of goodies, while Aldi matches the cash value of the goods as a donation. 

Each year across Scotland CHAS supports over 500 babies, children and young people with life-shortening conditions and their families. In 2025 every penny raised through Aldi’s Supermarket Sweep will go directly to CHAS, with £10,000 pledged in support. 

Edinburgh residents can apply for the Supermarket Sweep from Monday 24 March to Sunday 30 March 2025.

Graham Nicolson, Group Buying Director, Aldi Scotland, said: “Our annual Supermarket Sweeps hold a special place in the Aldi calendar, donating over £50,000 to local charities since 2016. We’re very much looking forward to its return for another year and giving one lucky Edinburgh resident the chance to enjoy a truly unique supermarket experience. 

“CHAS is a charity very close to our hearts, which provides a truly invaluable lifeline for families across Scotland, offering specialist care and unwavering support during the most difficult moments imaginable. This year, Aldi Scotland’s Supermarket Sweep will be travelling all over Scotland, giving Aldi customers nationally a brilliant opportunity to raise funds for CHAS while shining a light on the incredible work the charity does.”  

Entry is free and customers can apply in-store or by emailing supermarketsweep@aldi.co.uk

Entrants must be available to take part in the sweep after stores close at 10pm on their chosen date.

Entrants must be over 18 years old to take part, and alcohol products are not included in the sweep. 

For more information about CHAS and how to support its work, visit https://www.chas.org.uk/

Aldi opens appplications for apprenticeship roles in Edinburgh

Aldi is looking to recruit over 500 new apprentices across the UK in 2025, including in Edinburgh and the Lothians.  

The UK’s fourth-largest supermarket is welcoming applications for its apprenticeship scheme, with opportunities now live across stores and warehouse roles.  

At Aldi, Store Apprentices can earn £8.61 per hour, rising to £12.07. Inside the M25, Store Apprentices can earn £8.84 per hour, rising to £12.72. Meanwhile, those in warehouse roles can earn up to £11.18 per hour.  

Successful applicants will be able to gain industry-recognised qualifications while they earn and will have access to a number of additional benefits, including a range of shopping discounts, a bike to work scheme, 28 days’ paid holiday (including bank holidays) and a mortgage advice option where colleagues can seek free mortgage advice and access mortgage education.  

Aldi is also one of the only UK supermarkets to offer paid breaks. 

Lisa Murphy, Training and Development Director at Aldi UK, said: “We have found so many hard-working and ambitious people through our apprenticeship scheme over the years, and we’re excited to welcome the next intake of individuals to join our Aldi community. 

“Through the scheme, candidates will gain valuable transferable skills, become experts in their roles, and receive industry-leading pay at one of the UK’s top grocery retailers.  

“We’re keen to attract individuals from all backgrounds, and we really encourage anyone who is interested to apply, no matter your level of experience.” 

Those interested in applying for the apprenticeship scheme with Aldi can visit www.aldirecruitment.co.uk/early-careers/apprenticeships

Aldi donates over 14,000 meals to Edinburgh and Lothian charities over festive period

Aldi stores in Edinburgh and the Lothians donated 14,639 meals to those in need over the recent festive period.

The UK’s fourth largest supermarket teamed up with local good causes across the UK to donate a range of fresh and chilled foods from its stores after closing early on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

Research from Neighbourly, the community giving platform that works with Aldi, found that 78% of the good causes it supports were more concerned about meeting demand this Christmas, compared to the same time last year.

Additionally, 51% felt they would not be able to respond to every request for help due to capacity and funding.

The supermarket has also donated £25,000 to Neighbourly’s GoGive Christmas campaign to further support local charities across UK and Ireland.

Aldi has worked with Neighbourly since 2019 and provides surplus food from all of its UK stores to hundreds of charities across the country throughout the year.

Luke Emery, National Sustainability Director at Aldi UK, said: “This Christmas we were proud to support so many incredible charities across the UK who provide essential support to those in need.

“The services provided by food banks are more important than ever over the festive period and we’re committed to ensuring those that rely on them have access to a wide range of high-quality foods.”

Steve Butterworth, CEO at Neighbourly, added: “We’re so grateful to have had Aldi’s support for another year.

“Christmas is one of the busiest periods for our charities and the donations from Aldi mean we can help even more people across the country who need that bit of extra support over the festive period.”

Shoppers can donate food to local charities, food banks and community groups via the community donation points in Aldi stores nationwide.

Aldi also works with Company Shop Group, the UK’s leading redistributor of surplus food and household products, to redistribute surplus food from its Regional Distribution Centres. This year, it provided more than 2,000 free Christmas lunches to Company Shop’s award-winning social enterprise, Community Shop.

Snow Worries!

Aldi launches care package mission to snowed-in guests at Tan Hill Inn pub

Four guests and six staff remain at the Tan Hill Inn in the Yorkshire Dales yesterday after being snowed in since Saturday.

The supermarket rushed to the rescue after snowed in guests ran out of two important items – sausages and Malbec.

Whilst the pub-goers were initially left with “sore heads” from partying after four-foot-high snow drifts cut them off from the outside world, the atmosphere changed as some supplies dwindled, with one explaining: “We are fine, but we have run out of sausages.”

After hearing that the ten stranded tourists had been left sausage-less, Aldi commandeered a local farmer’s snow plough to get ’emergency essential rations’ to the remote Inn.

The snow plough consignment included, Malbec wine, sausages, de-icer, loo-paper, as well as boardgames and colouring books to stave off boredom.

Dog treats were also sent for the poor pup stranded inside the pub.

A spokesperson for Aldi said: “When we saw the guests had run out of key supplies and faced further days trapped by the snow, our store team at Catterick sprang into action, commandeered a farmer’s snow plough and set off to deliver a care package.”

A total of 23 customers and six staff were originally stuck inside the pub, which is situated 528 metres (1,732 ft) above sea level in Richmond, North Yorkshire.

During their lock-in, the pub-goers kept themselves entertained with snowball fights, movies, games and a disco – becoming “friends for life” along the way.

Pub manager Nicole Hayes said that the supermarket supplies would lift the spirits of her remaining snowed-in guests. She said: “Everybody needs a good pork sausage – and when we realised Aldi had come to the rescue, we were absolutely chuffed – it definitely livened up our lock in!”

Snowed in guest Angus Leslie, said: “Thanks to Aldi we can now stay for longer. Bring on the snow!”

Landlord Andrew Hields, said “Cheers Aldi for sorting us with our sausages and wine…our knights in shining snow plough”.