Discount supermarket chain Aldi opened a new location last week in the Fordham section of the Bronx at 4720 Third Ave.
The international grocery chain is known for being low cost, offering Aldi specific brands and eliminating many of the standard conveniences of traditional grocery stores to cut down on costs. The Fordham location is the company’s fifth in the borough.
Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson marked the occasion on X with photos of the ribbon cutting and opening day.
“Congratulations to Aldi on the opening of its newest Supermarket in Fordham!” Gibson said in a social media post. “We are grateful to Aldi and our other Bronx supermarkets who are committed to investing in our communities and aligning with our agenda to combat hunger and improve nutrition.”
Aldi shoppers can expect to do a bit more legwork in exchange for lower prices.
The supermarket shopping carts unlock with a quarter deposit that customers can only get back once they return the cart. Aldi cuts costs on services by asking that customers bag their own groceries.
There are no fancy product displays either. Aldi brand products are stocked or shelved in their original shipping boxes to save on time and costs, with the savings passed on to the consumer. Aldi markets weekly special pricing on premium products through its Aldi Finds program.
The demand for affordable, nutritious food reaches far beyond the Bronx. The international supermarket giant announced earlier this year that it will open 800 new stores across the U.S. by 2028.
“Our growth is fueled by our customers, and they are asking for more ALDI stores in their neighborhoods nationwide,” said Jason Hart, CEO, ALDI. “With up to 40% savings on groceries, new customers are inspired to try us out, and existing customers keep coming back.”
Bronxites reported the highest rate of adults facing food insecurity in the state, according to a New York State Department of Health report. Some 39% of adults in the Bronx reported being “always, usually or sometimes” concerned about being able to afford healthy food in the past year, up from the statewide average of 24.9%. This puts Bronxites at a higher risk of developing chronic diseases like hypertension, coronary heart disease, diabetes, stroke, cancer, asthma, arthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and kidney disease, according to the report.
If you are experiencing food insecurity in the Bronx, Hunter College Food Policy Center offers a free food resource guide by NYC neighborhood.
