Discount supermarket chain Aldi has announced plans to sell a selected number of products online in the UK. The retailer will launch its ecommerce platform by selling wine by the case early next year. Non-food products will then be added to the selection in spring 2016.
The retailer plans to sell its "special buy" non-food items through the service. An Aldi spokesperson confirmed to Cosmetics Business that this will include some personal care and beauty products, such as its popular Lacura skin care range. Consumers will be offered home delivery or collection from third-party locations.
Aldi says the launch is part of its long-term growth and investment strategy. Matthew Barnes, CEO of Aldi UK & Ireland, said: "As the grocery market continues to evolve, our unique model, operational efficiency, private ownership and financial strength mean we're able to keep investing in our business – from people and presence to products and prices."
The announcement comes shortly after Aldi reported record sales of £6.89bn in the last financial year – an increase of 31% on the previous year. However, company profits were £11m lower, as the retailer lowered prices to better compete with its supermarket rivals. In the past three years Aldi has doubled sales in the UK and is now the country's sixth biggest supermarket chain. It currently has 598 stores in the UK, with plans for significant growth in the coming years.
Barnes added: “The past 25 years has been an incredible journey for Aldi in the UK. During that time, the grocery market has changed beyond recognition – and changed for the better. At present, there are still 47 per cent of households that don’t shop with us. We’re hugely excited about the enormous scope for growth over the next 25 years.”