Aldi UK Chief Exec Giles Hurley reflects on big retail technology changes as firm crosses 1,000 stores mark

As German retailer Aldi celebrates 35 years of operating in the UK, Chief Executive Giles Hurley has taken to social media to discuss progress made, both in terms of store openings and technology roll-outs.

In a LinkedIn post, he said: "In 1990, we opened our first store in the UK with a simple idea: bring great value and quality to communities. There were no barcode scanners, no middle aisle, and certainly no Kevin the Carrot! Back then, our store managers wore white coats, and if you needed to update a price you reached for a pen and showcased your best handwriting."

Fast forward to today, and Aldi UK has grown to over 1,050 stores across Britain.

Hurley commented: "We've seen some big changes, like the debut of our now famous Specialbuys, and the shift from handwritten price cards to electronic shelf labels. But despite all of these innovations, the things that matter the most to us haven’t changed: amazing quality products, at simple everyday low prices - made possible by our incredible colleagues and supported by the loyal customers who’ve been with us every step of the way."

He concluded: "We’re incredibly proud to have been part of British communities for 35 years, and we believe everyone should have access to an Aldi store nearby. From our humble beginnings to our award winning products and middle aisle that’s become a national favourite, we’re still the same Aldi - committed to providing award winning quality at the lowest possible prices. Here’s to the next 35 years and beyond!"

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Physical stores will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which will open for entries in April, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.