DISCOUNT giant Aldi has vowed to open a new supermarket in Handforth as part of its largest ever expansion plans.

In its annual trading statement the German retailer said it plans to open 23 new locations before the end of the year – marking a record £800 million investment programme during 2024.

The supermarket chain has named Handforth as a priority area.

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The retailer, which currently has more than 1,000 stores, has previously vowed to increase this to 1,500 stores across the UK.

Cheshire is among the areas it is focusing on.

Richard Thornton, communications director at Aldi UK, said: “We are committed to bringing high quality, affordable groceries to millions more British families.

“With more than 1,000 stores across the country, our footprint is definitely growing, but we know there are still a number of towns that either don’t have an Aldi or have shown demand for more stores.”

Aldi recently refurbished the Knutsford store on Brook Street.

The supermarket is searching for freehold town centre, edge-of-centre, and retail park sites suitable for property development.

The sites should be able to accommodate a 20,000 sq foot store with around 100 parking spaces.

Ideally the location will be near a main road with good visibility and access.

Aldi, which ranks as the UK’s most popular supermarket invested almost £100m in over 300 price cuts in the last three months.

Recent price comparisons by consumer group Which? hail Aldi as undefeated this year as the UK’s cheapest grocer.

Anybody who has a site that may fit Aldi’s requirements should email realestateacquisitions@aldi.co.uk