Does Edinburgh need a new Aldi?

SUPERMARKET SEEKS INPUT ON WHERE TO OPEN NEXT

Aldi has launched a new nationwide initiative to pinpoint prime locations for new store openings. 

Recognising the invaluable input of its customers, the UK’s fourth-biggest supermarket is calling on the nation to help it identify where in Britain needs new Aldi stores most. 

The areas which have the most suggestions will then be considered as part of Aldi’s commitment to build hundreds of new stores across Britain. 

Aldi has been on a rapid expansion drive in recent years and has seen its popularity soar as shoppers switch to the supermarket for its lower prices and great quality amid the cost-of-living crisis.  

The retailer currently has more than 1,000 stores – including 19 across Edinburgh & the Lothians – and is committed to continuing towards its long-term target of over 1,500 stores across the UK.   

Jonathan Neale, Managing Director of National Real Estate at Aldi UK, said: “We want to make high-quality food accessible to all, but there are still some areas that either don’t have an Aldi or have potential for more stores.  

 “We’ve identified some key places where there is demand for more stores already, but now we are calling on the public to share their views. This will be used to help inform our property search over the coming years.”   

Those wanting to put their town forward to be considered should contact the supermarket by emailing NextNewStore@Aldi.co.uk, clearly stating their postcode and why they believe their area needs a new Aldi store. 

Aldi is asking for suggestions to be submitted by 31 May 2024, with the supermarket planning to update customers on the results and its latest priority ‘wish list’ later this year.  

For more information on Aldi’s nationwide site requirements, visit:

www.aldi.co.uk/about-aldi/property/required-towns

Dog lovers in Scotland needed to take part in ‘land-bark’ survey

Dogs Trust in Scotland is calling on local dog lovers to take part in the biggest ever nationwide survey to help dogs and owners of the future.

The National Dog Survey, launched by Dogs Trust, will help the charity better-understand the UK’s 12.5 million-strong pooch population and the part dogs play in their owners’ lives, shaping the support the charity offers to canine companions and their families.

Dogs Trust has two rehoming centres in Scotland, one in Glasgow and the other in West Calder, both of which find homes for hundreds of rescue dogs each year.

Sandra Downie, Rehoming Centre Manager for Dogs Trust in Glasgow, says: “Through this survey we want to learn as much as possible about dog ownership to inform what we do to improve dog welfare and support dog owners.  

“Dogs Trust has been around for 130 years and in that time so much has changed when it comes to dogs being at the heart of our family. 

“This is the first time we have carried out a survey of this kind and we want to hear from dog owners as well as people who don’t currently have a dog but have lived with one in the past.  By gathering as much information as we can, we will be able to help people and dogs live the best lives possible together.”

The online survey asks dog owners about everything from how their dog behaves and what training they do with their four-legged friend, to questions about their relationship such as do they celebrate their dog’s birthday and do they tell them they love them.

It also covers people’s post-pandemic plans for their dog such as are they hoping to take them into the office with them or will they employ a dog walker, if they are returning to their workplace.

The survey, which can be completed online at www.nationaldogsurvey.org.uk, also asks people to say how having a dog improves their life, what advice they would give to people looking to welcome a dog into their family and what one thing could Dogs Trust do to help them and their dog live happily together.

Sandra adds: “We always love to hear tales from owners who have adopted from us, and every single one of them has a different story to tell. We now want to capture the experiences of all local dog owners so we can build a picture of dog ownership today and what more Dogs Trust can do to help them and their dogs.

“This will be the most comprehensive census of dogs and dog lovers ever completed and we would love it if everyone who is passionate about dogs could do their bit to help our four-legged friends of the future have the best lives possible.

“What people tell us today will help us make sure we are able to do everything we can to support dogs and their owners for the next 130 years and more.”

For more information and to take part in the National Dog Survey, visit www.nationaldogsurvey.org.uk 

Dog owners who complete the survey will get tailored behaviour advice sent direct to them.

The closing date is 17th October.