Aldi in store

By Bridget Brady
SUPERMARKET giant Aldi yesterday confirmed its doors would open in Pakenham by mid October.
The store is currently under construction in Lakeside Pakenham and is part of the first stage of the new western side.
The German discount chain offers its own-brand products for almost half the price major supermarkets charge for similar goods.
Lakeside Pakenham project director Sharon Coates said the announcement marked a major milestone for Village Lakeside, following the success of the Coles supermarket that opened in late 2005. “We’re pleased to welcome Aldi to the growing retail community at Village Lakeside,” Ms Coates said.
“Lakeside Pakenham has long been regarded as a rapidly growing residential community, but now it’s known as a growing business community as well,” she said.
Aldi Victoria managing director Tom Daunt said the retailer was a major draw card for those looking for quality and extra value.
The Federal Government’s GroceryChoice site has identified Aldi as being $19 cheaper than other leading supermarkets for a comparable basket of goods. Aldi spokesperson Kate Gittings said all Pakenham shoppers would benefit from the Lakeside store.
“Even if a customer doesn’t shop at Aldi, they still benefit from having an Aldi store in their local area as it places pressure on retailers to be competitive,” Ms Gittings said.