In contrast to yesterday’s post about Aldi, today I’m featuring a Q&A with a dedicated Aldi shopper. Oconomowoc mom Michelle kindly agreed to answer some questions about why she loves Aldi.
When did you start shopping at Aldi?
Back in Illinois around 1995. When I moved to Oconomowoc, I frequented the Watertown Aldi. So I was thrilled when one was put up here in town.
Where did you shop primarily before you found Aldi?
Pick ‘n Save.
Why did you switch stores?
The prices at Aldi can NOT be beat. There are a few luxuries that you don’t get with Aldi (bagging, cart convenience, mass brand names), but it’s worth the savings!
What’s your favorite part of shopping at Aldi?
That I can get two weeks of groceries for HALF the amount of can at PNS or Piggly Wiggly.
What’s your least favorite part about Aldi?
That sometimes you want a specific brand, and it’s not available.
Do you still grocery shop anywhere else?
I do for certain items such as deli meat and some items when the brand does make a difference to us.
Do you buy other items at Aldi (like housewares or electronics)?
Yes, paper products, toothpaste, and we visit the Misc./Sale area when there are items that strike our interest. It’s hit-or-miss on what’s brought in, but it’s everything from toys to clothes to electronics to household furniture.
How much do you think you save over shopping somewhere else?
At least 50%.
What are your favorite items to buy at Aldi?
Their 2% milk is always $1.79 (give or take a couple cents — and cost is lower for 1% and skim). Cheese, produce, and they have a lot of European chocolates in the “goodie section.” Great quality!
Their ground beef is 90/10 lean, and it’s a very decent price (2 pounds usually around $6-$7). As well as their bags of chicken breasts ($6ish). Butter is always $1.99 a pack. Bags of spinach are always $1.99.
Also, they have a great selection of dried fruits, trail mix, walnuts/peacans/nuts for salads or just a healthier snack.
Do you feel the quality is the same (or better or worse) as items at other stores?
For the most part, it’s comparable. But there are a few things I would say are not up to par. You may sacrifice slightly in taste on some items, but for the overall savings, it’s justified.
Have you ever had an especially great experience there?
As I said, I’m a huge fan of their European chocolates. My family is all German, and I grew up with my family shipping us a lot of these brands/items from Germany. At Aldi, I can get them for a fraction of the cost and right down the street!
I’ve also tried a few of their wines, and they’re not bad. They have a great Riesling for only $5.99.
Their freezer section carries a lot of desserts and snacks that you wouldn’t expect to find in a discount store. They have a wide selection of frozen cakes/pastries that are quality items with great taste.
And their produce is always great to buy. Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, bananas — always fresh and good. And the cost is noticeably much less than you’d pay at other stores.
Michelle’s final thoughts on shopping at Aldi
In today’s economy, saving money and buying healthy choices for our families are a struggle. But Aldi has found a smart way to offer quality food at a fraction of the cost of other stores. The few things you may have to adjust to (bagging yourself, returning your carts, etc.) become a non-issue when you see your total on your receipt and you realize how much you saved. It’s a no-brainer!
My take on Michelle’s experience
Michelle has obviously done her homework on how to save money for her family. I applaud her good work! She’s found a great way to feel good about what she feeds her family while fitting it all into her budget. This is an excellent example of how saving money and living well works differently for different people. There are no “one size fits all” solutions to these challenges. Shopping at Aldi doesn’t work for me, but it obviously works very well for Michelle and her family. And I have to admit — I’m tempted to check out those chocolates!
What do you think of Aldi? Is it worth the savings? Am I crazy for not shopping there?
Thanks for your help, Michelle!