Aldi's radical new plan
German supermarket giant Aldi has submitted plans to Brisbane City council to convert one of its stores to a liquor shop, as part of a radical new plan to conquer the alcohol market.
The retailer also criticised Queensland’s liquor licensing laws that currently prevent alcohol being sold in supermarkets, forcing Aldi to open a standalone bottle shop.
Documents obtained by 7News reveal Aldi’s grand plans for the Ashgrove store, in Brisbane’s inner-northwest, included the “conversion of the existing… supermarket tenancy to an ALDI Liquor Barn”.
“Aldi are kicking goals in the supermarket business, growing at a rate of knots and the alcohol business is a strong part of their mix,” retail expert Brian Walker said.
Queensland legislation also requires companies to own a pub before it can be granted a liquor licence, which explains ALDI’s development application to build a tavern.
However, the supermarket denied the move despite plans being lodged with Brisbane City Council.
“This concept was explored as an option for Queensland customers but we can confirm we have no plans to do so,” an ALDI spokesperson told 7News.
If the plan does progress the development would be the Aldi’s first push into Queensland’s alcohol market.
“ALDI is able to give the big guys a run for their money,” wine communicator Tyson Stelzer said.
“It’ll engage these retailers into a price war effectively. ALDI will be very strong and aggressive in their pricing,” Mr Stelzer said.