I promised myself that I would re-visit the new Aldi store that has recently appeared en route to my usual weekly shopping destination of Sainsbury's in Hove.
I did visit once before, but only very briefly, and I wanted to make a more 'detailed investigation'. I don't wish to ignore it without having seen what's on offer.
I got there early; just after opening time. A lot of the shelves were empty, so I began to peruse the aisles; ignoring my strictly detailed shopping list.
It's a strange set-up. They have most things inside cooled cabinets, and a 'Middle Aisle' with all sorts of 'bargains' that you don't want, which apparently change from week to week. Mostly cheap rubbish.
I bought more of the Australian wine that I'd bought previously, they didn't have any Caulis, but I did buy some nice looking Medjool Dates; I haven't tasted one yet, but they are favourites and I'm sure they'll be delicious. I'm still a little dubious about the quality of many items.
At the checkout there was no-one at the only aisle that said 'open'. I had to hail someone who looked as if he worked there. He didn't speak much English, but pointed us to a different row. We all moved and were seen-to. Not very impressed!
I don't think I shall visit again. Verdict: a generous 3/10
Aldi/Lidl are both both okay and similar. The veg is cheap but doesn't keep well. Dairy products seem fine to me I can't comment on the wine as I'm teetotal. They are what they are, funnily in Germany they are totally different and much better.
ReplyDeleteI use Sainsbury as they are the closest. The only supermarket I avoid are the Co-Op as they seem much like the German pair but with Waitrose prices.
I shall stick with Sainsbury and Waitrose. I didn't see any advantage with Aldi, other than maybe a few pence cheaper; but I'm not really bothered about that.
DeleteYour Aldi seems to be like they were in Germany in the 1970ies. I have been told that nowadays they are much nicer and have better quality food and especially non-food (the things in the middle aisle). I used to buy some cheap basics there, but since we are only two persons now, I buy most fresh food at the weekly market and the rest in our nearest Rewe. There are no really upmarket chains in Germany, I would like to do some shopping there.
ReplyDeleteHilde in Germany
'Upmarket' doesn't always mean better; usually it means more expensive. However, Waitrose does have certain things that others don't, and I'm prepared to pay a few pence more.
DeleteWe shop at our local Lidl's and find their quality, especially on the meats to be brilliant.
ReplyDeleteI haven't dared try Aldi's meats yet, although I do have an Aldi free-range frozen goose in the freezer, which I'm certain will be fabulous.
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