ALDI Files Plans To Open In Branford: Report

BRANFORD, CT — One of the fastest growing grocers in the country has its eye on Branford as part of its expansion plan. ALDI has submitted an application with Branford officials to build a 19,000-square-foot store off of Exit 53, as first reported by the Branford Seven.

Attempts to reach ALDI officials have so far been unsuccessful, but on its website ALDI says it is in the midst of a big-time expansion plan. That expansion now includes Branford apparently.

According to Inland Wetlands Commission meeting minutes, the proposal was discussed at the Dec. 5 meeting. The name, ALDI, wasn't specifically mentioned, but it states that a "bank and grocery store" are planned for 1151 W. Main St. The Branford Seven reports that the grocery store is in fact ALDI and the bank is Chase.

ALDI officials say they ate in the "midst of an accelerated growth plan, investing more than $5 billion to remodel and expand its store count to 2,500 by the end of 2022,” the company states on its website.

“The continued success of our store expansion and remodel initiatives has given us the opportunity to carefully select and introduce new products that satisfy our customers’ increasing preferences for fresh items, including organic meats, salad bowls, sliced fruits and gourmet cheeses,” said Jason Hart, CEO of ALDI U.S. on its website. “We know people lead busy lives, so we’re making it even easier for them to purchase everything on their shopping list at ALDI, while still saving money.”

ALDI, which first opened in 1976, operates more than 1,800 U.S. stores in 35 states, including 26 locations in Connecticut. The Connecticut locations include: 2 in Waterbury, Bristol, Southington, Wallingford, New Britain, Hamden, Derby, Milford, West Haven, New Haven, Newington, Middletown, West Hartford, New Milford, Danbury, East Hartford, Groton, Enfield, Vernon, Waterford, Torrington, Rocky Hill, Dayville, North Windham, and Lisbon.

ALDI is known for streamlined approach it brings to retailing, which means lower prices. ALDI sells frequently purchased grocery and household items.

The Branford location being eyed by ALDI is right off Interstate 95 and also less than a mile from competitors Walmart and Big Y.

>>>Read More at the Branford Seven.