Aldi to trial refill stations

Image: Aldi

ALDI has launched a trial selling its first packaging-free products in a bid to help customers shop more sustainably.

The pilot will begin at a store in Cumbria, before being moved to other stores if it proves to be a success.

It will see basmati rice, brown rice, penne pasta and wholewheat fusilli available to buy loose in store. The products will be priced by weight, with free recyclable paper bags being provided to customers.

The supermarket said that, if rolled out in all its stores, it could see more than 130 tonnes – or more than 21 million pieces – of plastic annually from stores.

Richard Gorman, plastics and packaging director at Aldi, said, “Customers at our Ulverston store can now buy the same high-quality items they know and love, while also cutting down on plastic packaging.

“We’re always looking for new ways to reduce waste plastic and limit packaging, as many of our shoppers are increasingly conscious of the environment and their impact on it.

“We hope local customers embrace the trial and we will use their feedback to inform any future plans around refillable products.”