Discount grocer Aldi to open more than 180 stores in 2026
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Aldi, known for its low prices, is expanding. Photo: Kelly Tyko/Axios
Aldi plans to open more than 180 new stores across 31 states in 2026, the company announced Monday.
Why it matters: As grocery inflation reshapes where Americans shop, America's fastest-growing grocery chain is betting its low-price model will resonate with cost-conscious shoppers.
Aldi store openings 2026
Driving the news: The discount grocer said its 2026 openings will span 31 states, marking a major growth push as Aldi celebrates its 50th year in the U.S.
- Aldi will enter Maine as its 40th state in 2026.
- The company also laid out a five-year plan to expand into Colorado, with roughly 50 stores slated for the Denver and Colorado Springs markets.
- Aldi plans to support the growth with new distribution centers in Colorado, Florida and Arizona.
The big picture: Aldi — which first opened as "Albrecht Discount" in Germany over 60 years ago — expects to operate nearly 2,800 U.S. stores by the end of 2026, keeping it on track for about 3,200 by 2028.
- The first U.S. Aldi opened in 1976 in Iowa and today there are 2,624 locations in 39 states and Washington D.C.
Aldi growth plan
Zoom in: Aldi said it plans to continue its westward expansion in Arizona, with 10 new stores slated for the Phoenix market in 2026.
- The grocer aims to grow to about 40 stores in the Phoenix area by 2030, according to the company.
- Aldi is continuing to convert former Winn-Dixie and Harveys locations after its 2024 acquisition of Southeastern Grocers, with nearly 80 stores expected to transition in 2026.
What they're saying: Aldi CEO Atty McGrath said in a statement that the expansion is focused on making it "even easier for customers to shop our aisles first" as demand for affordable groceries continues.
What we're watching: Whether Aldi's rapid expansion keeps pressure on competitors like Walmart, Kroger and regional grocers to hold the line on prices as value-driven shopping becomes the norm.
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