Aldi UK announces online delivery first amid coronavirus lockdown

Aldi UK is launching an online food delivery service for the first time.

The discounter will sell food parcels on its website from today, to help vulnerable people and those self-isolating.

The parcels contain 22 essential products including tinned soup, rice and pasta. Each food box will also include antibacterial handwash and a four-pack of toilet roll. They will be available to order here at a price of £24.99 including delivery. Boxes will be limited to one per customer.

The move gives the retailer the first step towards a more comprehensive offering to genuinely compete with the likes of Tesco and Sainsbury’s, whose online grocery functions are leading in the response to the Covid-19 crisis, says Tim Reay, Head of Grocery at Wunderman Thompson Commerce.

“First and foremost, initiatives across the grocery sector must safeguard vulnerable customers and ensure they are protected. But to truly thrive, online delivery and Click and Collect services must take centre stage in the industry’s response to Covid-19,” he comments.

“After all, retailers that can provide the most sophisticated online capabilities to keep websites operating smoothly, delivery slots available for the vulnerable and wider services running as best possible, will be the ones that succeed and retain customer loyalty.”

“Once the current crisis passes, customers will remember the retailers and grocers who were best able to serve them and protect others during this time of need,” Reay concludes.