The Interesting Way American Aldi Stores Differ From German Ones

Aldi has captured the hearts of millions of Americans with its impossible-to-beat deals (like the many Aldi dupes that are better than the name brand). The discount chain now operates thousands of stores across America; these days, only a few states don't have an Aldi location. However, as Aldi's highly anticipated German week reminds us, the grocery chain got its start in Germany in 1913, long before opening its first U.S. location in Iowa in 1976. With that in mind, American Aldi lovers who make their way to a Deutsch outpost of the discount grocer may be surprised to find that it's quite different from the U.S. Aldi stores we know and love.

When a reporter from Daily Meal explored a German Aldi store to see what it's really like, one of the first things she noticed was a distinct lack of prepared foods. While American shoppers are accustomed to an ample selection of prepared meals, such as sandwiches, salads, and pastas, German Aldi stores appear to offer fewer of these convenient grab-and-go plates. However, the absence of premade soups is made up for by a stellar selection of mayonnaise-based deli salads, including various regional potato salads and vegan options.

In addition to the lack of prepared foods, German Aldi stores are distinguished from their American counterparts in several other fascinating ways. For one thing, German Aldi stores offer an impressive selection of antipasti like stuffed peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, and even something called "antipasti creme." Of course, they also carry a delightful array of regional German specialties, such as Bavarian bratwurst, Munich white sausage, pretzels, and apple strudel. If you enjoy checking out the European items carried at American stores (like the premium chocolate that's a steal at Aldi), you'll be delighted to find an excellent offering of reasonably priced French wines, Italian cheeses, and other high-quality European products at Aldi Germany.

In terms of the shopping experience itself, Americans may be pleasantly surprised to find that Aldi Germany boasts incredibly well-designed shopping carts with comfortable, easy-grip handles. Additionally, although Aldi is a budget-friendly grocery store in both countries, prices in Germany seem to be a bit lower in general compared to the U.S., especially when it comes to wine (in other words, Aldi Germany is the perfect spot to stock up on expertly selected dry German Riesling). Despite all these differences, some things never change – Aldi's beloved Aisle of Shame remains comfortingly consistent in Germany.

Static Media owns and operates both The Daily Meal and The Takeout.