Investing In Your Community Planning opportunities and benefits

T: 0844 406 8800 E: info@.co.uk W: www.aldi.co.uk Registered in England 2321869 Prepared in conjunction with McCann Manchester and Jones Lang LaSalle.

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Who is Aldi?

Aldi is a operator that sells quality products at low prices. Aldi is committed to being at least 15% cheaper than the UK’s larger national .

Aldi stores have a limited footprint and are of modest size, designed to serve local communities. “Aldi became the sixth largest supermarket Discount retailer Aldi opened its first store in in 2015, ahead of , in addition to an the UK in 1990, increased market share against the ‘Big 4’ and and has now expanded other grocery stores in the UK.” to over 600 stores across England, Scotland Contents and Wales. Introduction 2 Aldi became the sixth largest supermarket Benefits and Advantages 4 in 2015, ahead of Waitrose, in addition to an How We Differ... 10 increased market share against the ‘Big 4’ and Expansion 12 other grocery stores in the UK. Planning Policy 14 Planning Compliance 16 Aldi experienced 16.5% growth in 2015, while Summary 18 maintaining a market share high of 5.6% Case Studies 20 (Kantar Worldpanel for 12 weeks ending 03/01/2016).

Aldi continues to expand its fresh range, and Purpose of this Document an additional 50 lines of fresh produce were added to the range in 2014. Aldi leads the The purpose of this document is to • Increasing competition resulting in lower way on supporting British farmers; in 2014, demonstrate to Local Authorities how Aldi prices for consumers over 40% of all fruit and vegetables delivered meets the sustainable development objectives • Greater overall economic activity within that into our depots was British – exceeding the set out in Development Plans and in National particular area national figure of 35%. Policy. The report sets out significant economic • Reducing the distance required to travel and community benefits, which can be • Increased choice The main attraction of Aldi for UK consumers achieved through the opening of new Aldi is great value at low prices. Added to that Aldi stores within towns and communities. Aldi is aware that each new site needs to be also stocks an improved range and quality New stores also create jobs at Regional approached in an individual manner, with of products, and British-sourced fresh meat. Distribution Centres. local planning policies and priorities taken All of this has combined to give Aldi a unique into account. Aldi believes that the benefits position within the grocery market. A new store in a local catchment area can outlined above are an integral part of any provide benefits such as: planning application. • New employment opportunities

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By addressing the objectives of council development plans and the National Planning Policy Framework in planning applications for new stores, the expansion of Aldi’s store portfolio will be facilitated and the benefits that Aldi brings to the wider community will be realised by more households.

These direct benefits include:

• Knock-on benefits for nearby retailers Linked Trips “Multi-million pound • A catalyst for future development Aldi’s stores do not feature many of the investments are put directly • Stimulating competition, which lowers amenities provided by larger supermarket into each new store at the grocery prices and offers greater choice formats, such as butchers, fishmongers, deli • Creating permanent, local retail jobs and development stage.” counters or pharmacies, thus reducing the training opportunities for the workforce impact on small independent traders. • Increasing business rates and other revenues for the local council Aldi stores are modest in • Bringing multi-million pound investment Price and Choice size, providing a discount into each site foodstore choice within • A sustainable business model Aldi sells high quality goods at the lowest a given catchment area, possible price. Discounted prices are usually thus providing a further achieved through bulk buying and economies Investment choice for shoppers. “Aldi’s store concept of scale, specialising in the number of lines The limited core product means that shoppers are offered and maximising efficiency within the Not only do new Aldi stores create jobs, line of circa 1,500 products operation of its stores. The end result is that they trigger further investment. New stores means that, unlike encouraged to continue shoppers benefit by paying less. often attract other retailers and businesses, a large supermarket to use other retailers and acting as a catalyst for regeneration, often format (which may sell therefore real linked The range and price of goods sold provides by redeveloping failing or redundant sites. up to 40,000 product trips occur.” shoppers with an opportunity to choose This encourages further development and lines), shoppers will to shop at Aldi in addition to the larger improvements to local businesses. often visit other local supermarkets and local specialist retailers. operators to complete Many of Aldi’s stores are developed on their weekly shop. This means that there is brownfield sites, which were underperforming negligible impact on existing supermarkets in Accessibility or derelict. They bring life back to a community and outside town centres. Furthermore, the and provide security for local businesses and store’s concept means that shoppers are more Stores are accessible to communities. residents. likely to continue to use competing stores and New stores usually mean shoppers can make therefore real linked trips occur. shorter trips and continue to access local The investment an individual store brings facilities, thus contributing to a sustainable directly to a site at development stage is Aldi’s stores dedicate approximately 80% of shopping experience. considerable. This investment includes their floorspace to convenience goods and purchase and development of a site. The approximately 20% to comparison goods knock-on effects for suppliers, local contractors made up of weekly specials. No evidence and revenue to Local Authorities, to name but has been found that Aldi’s non-food range is a few, are significant additional benefits, thus harmful to town centres. bringing added investment directly into the community.

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Distance store staff travel to work (%) Job Creation Miles 2% 3% 4% ■ 0.0 - 2.5 ■ 10.1 - 12.5 4% Aldi currently employs over 28,000 staff in ■ 2.6 - 5.0 ■ 12.6 - 15.0 8% the UK, including over 23,000 in stores. ■ 5.1 - 7.5 ■ 15.1 - 17.5 ■ 7.6 - 10.0 ■ 17.6+ 43% 13% Aldi plans to recruit thousands of additional staff at all levels during the next few years to support its store expansion strategy. 23% This means new jobs in the stores and in “Aldi employs between 30 the distribution side of the business. A vast and 50 staff in its new stores.” percentage of these will “Currently the distribution centres be hired from within the local communities where including regional administration Aldi is planning to open teams account for 400-600 staff 4-5 Assistant Store Managers a store. Store jobs range per region.” from Store Assistants and 5 Stock Assistants 1 Caretaker Caretakers, to Apprentices and Store Managers. Aldi employs between works, steel, brick and block work and shop 30 and 50 staff in its new stores. fitting are sourced locally, as well as cleaners and labourers. Local or regionally-based It is Aldi’s preference to recruit staff locally contractors are usually more competitive, for its new stores. The company voluntarily as travel and hotel costs aren’t required, enters into Local Labour Agreements therefore keeping costs down and boosting thus demonstrating its commitment to a the construction trade in a local area. 35 Store Assistants community. The expansion in store numbers is leading In October 2015, Aldi announced that it would to requirements for new distribution centres pay all Aldi UK hourly-rate employees a living and growth in existing distribution centres. wage, minimum rate of £8.40 (£9.45 per hour This is resulting in further increases in jobs 5 Store Deputies in Greater London) from February 2016, in a in the logistics part of the business, ranging 1 Store Manager move to ensure that Aldi maintains its position from drivers to management staff. Currently as the best supermarket employer in Britain. the distribution centres, including regional administration teams, account for Indirect Jobs 400-600 staff per region.

Construction: Aldi offers exceptional, market- At construction stage, Aldi is willing to enter leading salaries to its employees into Local Trade Agreements, which ensure and, in return for their commitment, “Aldi offers market- hard work, dedication, responsibility that local contractors are invited to tender for leading retail salaries new development contracts. and sharp thinking, staff receive job security too. Working hours are also across all of its roles.” Due to the scale of the projects for new Aldi flexible so that staff can achieve the stores, both local and national construction perfect work/life balance. companies will subcontract large parts of their projects to local or regional companies. Aldi offers full training for all of its positions Usually a range of skills such as ground and the schedule and facets of the training are tailored to the individual.

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Career Progression There are over 150 graduate places available Corporate Responsibility Products: for the 2016 Area Management Programme. Responsible sourcing of products Aldi has two of the most successful This is an annual programme. Trainee Area Aldi has a comprehensive Corporate Social is essential to Aldi. It sells free range eggs graduate and apprentice schemes in Managers spend a year shadowing an Area Responsibility (CSR) programme in place, and aims to source fish from sustainable the UK. Manager and learning the ropes before they covering three key pillars: Fair, Local fisheries. Own label paper products are all are expected to take on three to four stores and Healthy. sourced from recycled materials or from The apprentice scheme only began in 2012, of their own. The training covers the entire well-managed forests certified by the Forestry but Aldi has already taken on over 1,000 spectrum of running a retail operation and Aldi takes its responsibilities seriously and Stewardship Council. apprentices during that time, as part of a is a UK-wide programme. actively promotes its five areas of Corporate three-year programme across the UK. Responsibility, many of which are already Operations: From February 2016, all Aldi employees will mentioned throughout this document. Aldi makes important efficiencies that reduce Apprentices are trained to work in all parts of receive a new minimum rate of £8.40 per costs for the company and therefore keeps the business including at store, distribution, hour (higher rates available for stores in Aldi is responsible to its prices down for its customers, all of which logistics and management level, as well as London), regardless of their age, in a move • Customers contribute to protecting the environment. progression through to the Store Management that maintains Aldi’s position as the best • Suppliers Aldi applies energy efficient systems in its Team. supermarket employer in Britain. The new • Products buildings, fuel efficient driving in its truck fleet, rate is significantly higher than the hourly pay • Operations reduced lighting outside of store opening offered by all other British supermarkets and • People hours and minimal waste. Aldi installs follows significant sustained sales growth and solar panels for new stores and Regional store expansion. Customers: Distribution Centres where possible. Aldi’s goal In addition to ensuring customers only buy is to send zero waste to landfill and food waste “Over 1,000 apprentices hired products of the highest standards and quality, is converted into energy through an anaerobic Aldi provides information so customers can digestion process. by Aldi as part of a three-year make healthy choices when buying food and programme across the UK.” drink, including alcohol, by providing as much People: detail as possible on its packaging. Aldi employs over 28,000 people in the UK. It is loyal to its employees and rewards Suppliers: performance with higher than average Aldi’s success is partly driven by its salaries for the industry. The apprenticeship commitment to its UK suppliers, sourcing all and graduate schemes demonstrate Aldi’s fresh meat from British farms. Beyond the UK, commitment to training and developing Aldi supports developing countries by stocking new employees. “Over 150 graduate places Fairtrade products. available for the 2016 area management programme.” Local Suppliers

Produce: All fresh bread, dairy and meat products are sourced across the UK, therefore UK suppliers benefit from the success of the Aldi brand.

More importantly, as the number of stores “Aldi employs over 28,000 grows across the UK, those suppliers will people in the UK.” benefit further. Bread and dairy products are sourced regionally, thus all parts of the UK benefit from suppliers. The greatest benefit is to Aldi’s customers who are assured they are buying locally sourced fresh products.

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Aldi offers a significant choice of locally larger supermarkets, to continue trading sourced fresh meat and produce – Aldi sources as they were. its fresh meat and produce from the UK. Fresh fruit and vegetables are also sourced in In addition, Aldi’s store format allows the UK when in season, such as strawberries, customers to spill over to local shops, as we salads, carrots and potatoes. In addition, don’t sell tobacco and we don’t have in store Aldi works with a range of local businesses and concessions such as a Post Office, a pharmacy suppliers in order to supply fresh bread, or a butchers. milk and other dairy products. As such, new Aldi stores provide a boost to the regional Aldi launched its Corporate Responsibility business community. Policy (CR Policy) in 2012, ensuring that responsibility is an integral part of our An Aldi shopping trip often forms one part corporate decision making processes, of a wider shopping trip for convenience including within the supply chain. goods. This allows existing businesses within local communities, as well as the Aldi ensures that its prices are affordable so customers can be reassured that their grocery bill will remain consistently low over a sustained period of time.

Aldi does not operate a loyalty card scheme or gimmicky offers which result in price Aldi’s business model has proved ideally suited to take fluctuations for shoppers from week to week. advantage of gaps within the current UK grocery market, by It is essential for Aldi that all products are made challenging the ‘Big 4’ supermarkets. Aldi’s business model responsibly and they do not damage the limits operating costs to ensure the lowest possible prices for environment or workers.

its range of exclusive brands. Aldi’s CR Policy is constantly evolving as an important component of Aldi’s investment in local communities and is a strong offering The evidence for this is Aldi’s increasing brands, unlike the compared to most other retailers. market share, indicating that shoppers major superstores which have been impressed with their overall stock in the region of experience. 40,000 lines. “Aldi received a total of 16 gold accolades at the Aldi offers a consistent, familiar shopping Aldi stores do not feature Grocer Own Label Awards.” environment which resonates with consumers, in-house butchers, compared to the confused formats and fishmongers, deli counters or pharmacies and “Where possible Aldi’s promotions which are used by competitors in so have a minimal impact on small, order to increase or retain market share. local businesses. fresh meat is UK sourced. Fresh fruit and vegetables, such Aldi uses three key formats on its products; This format is backed up by a range of award- as strawberries, salads, carrots its ‘Range’, ‘Specially Selected’ and ‘Everyday winning products, which have been endorsed and potatoes are also sourced in Essentials’, which are easily understood by industry leaders. Aldi has been awarded the UK when in season.” by consumers. the prestigious title of ‘Supermarket of the Year’ by consumer watchdog Which? four times, and Aldi has a range of 1,500 products and received a total of 16 gold accolades at only around 5% of these are recognised The Grocer Own Label Awards.

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“Aldi’s stores often provide a neighbourhood Aldi has an ambitious growth function which is reflected in the scale of strategy for the next few development and relationship with the community.” years. Aldi is planning to open over 60 stores per year across England, Scotland and Wales, as well as extending a number of existing stores in order to expand the available retail space.

Over the next decade, Aldi aims to double its store portfolio, offering significant “Aldi is planning to open development opportunities for over 60 stores per year councils across the across England, Scotland UK to enhance their and Wales.” communities. Bathgate

All distribution centres have undergone significant expansion and South Wales will have a new, dedicated distribution centre in Darlington Cardiff by 2017. • Aldi’s stores are modest in size

Aldi has opened a state-of-the-art, purpose • Aldi’s stores often provide a neighbourhood Goldthorpe built facility in Bolton to replace its distribution function which is reflected in the scale centre in Middleton. of development and relationship with the Bolton community Neston Typical Site Requirements New sites are identified by Aldi when it is a Atherstone viable business opportunity in order to allow Aldi is constantly on the look-out for new sites prices in store to remain consistently low. that can accommodate new stores. Aldi has Cardiff Chelmsford a standard store format which is essential (Opening 2017) to minimise development costs which are Swindon otherwise reflected in prices for customers. A typical site would be at least 0.6 hectares (1.5 acres) and can accommodate • A store of circa 1800m2 gross • At least 90 car park spaces • Provision for site access Regional Distribution • Provision for servicing and deliveries Centre (RDCs) • Landscaping

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Central Government issued new guidance in March 2012 which set out how Local Authorities “Aldi has a strong track Often the local catchment areas that Aldi stores record in delivering schemes serve are outside of town centres and Local should determine proposals including retail. This is Authorities recognise that our supermarkets which contribute to the needs provide a local offer. set out in the National Planning Policy Framework. of the local economy.” Retail Assessments

National Planning in which people live their lives. Where Aldi’s new stores are located in Policy Framework Aldi has often helped to regenerate out-of-centre locations, it is important that we communities by redeveloping redundant or demonstrate that the proposal is Sustainable underperforming sites At the heart of the NPPF is a strong Development in line with the NPPF, thus presumption in favour of sustainable addressing the two key tests of Impact and development. • Proactively drive and support sustainable Sequential Sites Assessments. economic development to deliver investment. Again, Aldi has a strong “Aldi contributes to positive An impact assessment is usually required What is Sustainable track record in delivering schemes which for out-of-centre schemes and in particular growth, making economic, those of 2500m2 gross or more. Aldi stores sit contribute to the needs of the local economy Development? environmental and social comfortably below this threshold and many Local Authorities recognise that the modest The Government’s Minister for Planning, • Take account of the different roles and progress for this and size of our stores do not require a full impact in his Foreword to the NPPF, states that: character of different areas and promote future generations.” assessment. Our impact assessments show ‘Sustainable means ensuring better lives the vitality of our main urban areas. Aldi that the modest size of stores and relatively for ourselves, it doesn’t mean worse lives recognises that its retail developments low turnover, in comparison, have negligible for future generations.’ improve the vitality of local areas by impact on town centre convenience offers. providing vibrant schemes within town In fact the assessments show that the positive It is about ‘positive growth – making centre and community areas benefits significantly outweigh any economic, environmental and social potential harm. progress for this and future generations.’ • Should encourage the effective use of The planning system should therefore facilitate sustainable development providing space by reusing brownfield land, which Competition Commission ‘a golden thread running through both Aldi develops a majority of its sites on plan-making and decision-taking by Local During the investigations by the Government’s Authorities.’ The NPPF encourages development that Competition Commission into the grocery actively manages patterns of growth to make sector, the Office of Fair Trading (J Fingleton, Aldi supports the NPPF Core Planning Principles. the fullest possible use of public transport, Town Centre Locations 2006) stated that ‘Legislation is to protect Those most relevant to Aldi are that planning: walking and cycling and focus significant competition not competitors. In many development in locations which are or can scenarios consumers benefit from As a retail operator, Aldi recognises that town • Should be plan led, empowering local be made sustainable. Most of Aldi’s sites are increased productivity and efficiency in well connected to town centres or within the centres form an integral part of communities. people to shape their surroundings. terms of choice, wider availability, greater heart of communities, with many customers Many of Aldi’s stores are located in town Aldi has found strong support for its innovation and lower prices.’ travelling on foot and by public transport. centres, with several sites providing the proposals at its public consultation events, opportunity to redevelop neighbourhood Aldi is a prime example of how increased which help to strengthen the message centres which have suffered from high levels National Policy recognises that to deliver competition provides customers with that local people should influence what they of vacant units and old building stock. sustainable development, Local Authorities greater choice whilst not reducing quality. want in their locality need to: The key driver when choosing where to buy Community Site Locations convenience goods is the quality and the price, • Should not simply be about scrutiny, but • Build a strong, competitive economy thus keeping competition healthy with the instead be a creative exercise in finding Increasingly, Aldi is opening stores in the heart larger supermarket operators and keeping ways to enhance and improve the places • Ensure the vitality of town centres of communities, many in residential areas. more change in the purse.

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Planning Policy encourages: Aldi’s complementary offer provides a balance car trips to the food stores are not new to the for shoppers who want the freedom to choose network, but rather transferred or linked trips. • A positive approach from decision makers where they shop in their local area, to get The local nature of many of Aldi’s stores also • Approval of applications for sustainable development where possible best value for their budgets. This practice encourages high levels of pedestrian shoppers not only provides customers with choice but and users of public transport. • Councils to work proactively with applicants to secure developments that allows other stores within a catchment area to improve the economic, social and environmental conditions of the area continue trading well. Design Catchment Compliance Aldi’s stores are modest in size, providing Out-of-centre Aldi recognises a complementary convenience retail Aldi’s modestly sized stores mean that it that design is a key “Aldi’s stores comply offer to existing convenience shopping can accommodate more than one store in a Aldi’s out-of-centre, consideration in the provision in their respective catchment given Local Authority area, therefore serving with development plan community and retail “The local nature of many of determination of an areas. Aldi’s stores are spread across a shoppers visiting a town centre and shoppers policies in town, district park stores, which Aldi’s stores also encourages application for its stores range of geographical areas. within local neighbourhoods too. Often are not attached high levels of pedestrian and takes great pride and local centres shoppers to a new Aldi store are existing Aldi to defined centres in their appearance. which meet the national Some are located in: shoppers and users of public shoppers. A new store often provides a shorter have been approved ‘town centre first’ policy by Local Planning transport.” shopping trip, therefore reducing the need • Town, district, local and neighbourhood Aldi injects multi-million Authorities. Each have to travel as far, often to a store outside of the objectives.” centres pound investments into demonstrated that they catchment area. This assists in clawing back • Edge of town centre sites its sites to provide modern meet Development Plan objectives, therefore trade being spent elsewhere. • Local communities buildings. The design has evolved over time Sustainable Development does not harm • Retail and leisure parks since Aldi first opened in the UK. the vitality or viability of town centres. Aldi Aldi’s local presence helps to retain expenditure within a given catchment area chooses sites which serve local communities, Moving forward, the design of each store is and contribute to improving market share. Community Engagement therefore reducing the need to travel and consistent across Aldi’s portfolio, promoting provide a convenient offer without having to modern, smart buildings with clean lines on Aldi engages in pre and post-application make a longer trip, which would probably be Viability main elevations and glazed frontages. consultation with councils and the local to a larger supermarket. The environmental, It is only occasions where sites are located in community, involving meetings with local social and economic benefits of Aldi’s locations Aldi’s cost efficient concept means that often sensitive areas, such as conservation areas, councillors, planning officers and members provide a convenient and competitive it has to avoid complicated sites with land that bespoke detail is implemented on Aldi’s of the public. We hold exhibitions, providing shopping experience without customers assembly issues, which are often located in stores. Aldi’s maintenance programme letters to local residents and advertisements having to think too hard about it. town centre locations. In such catchments, ensures all buildings are reviewed and in the local press. Often public exhibitions are Aldi will seek to identify less complicated maintained to retain standards. Landscape held where members of local communities, Aldi works with councils to achieve good sites further afield to edge and out-of-centre contractors visit all sites on a monthly basis. councillors and other stakeholders can visit design and connectivity with nearby towns locations. This is a positive response to This programme emphasises Aldi’s attention Aldi’s project team to discuss the proposals and local communities. consumer choice for shoppers as it allows to detail. and get answers to any questions. Local Aldi to keep its prices low and therefore, engagement is important and allows Aldi to Choice combined with other benefits, offsets any work with the community to provide the right Residential Amenity perceived adverse impact on those centres. scheme and establish support. The modest scale The form, scale, appearance and layout of of Aldi stores fulfil Highway Compliance the proposed developments are taken into In-centre a neighbourhood “Aldi wants to invest in your consideration within all planning applications shopping role, which community to provide a new Aldi considers highways within all its planning located close to residential areas. Aldi’s project Aldi’s stores in town, district and local centres means Aldi’s customers local supermarket with applications. Proposed developments are team works closely with residents to ensure comply with Development Plan policies which generally shop elsewhere quality products at low encouraged to promote accessibility by all they are informed of the development meet the national ‘town centre first’ policy as well to complete a full modes of travel, specifically public transport, progress. objectives. weekly shop. prices in an accessible and sustainable location.” cycling and walking. Given that proposed stores are conveniently located, the majority of

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Aldi is keen to demonstrate to councils that it considers all factors in preparing its development proposals for new stores.

In addition to its town centre stores, both edge and out-of-centre stores continue to provide benefits to customers and communities by providing economic, social and environmental benefits, therefore providing Sustainable Development in line with Planning Policy.

Aldi customers also shop in other larger supermarkets too, thus keeping competition alive in the convenience sector of local towns.

Benefits of Sustainable Planning

In line with national planning guidance, “Aldi is not a one-stop-shop development should be sustainable. so it forms part of a wider weekly food shop, therefore shoppers continue to support other provisions including niche “Wherever possible, fresh Aldi is sustainable in so and larger stores.” bread, dairy and meat many ways: products are sourced • Customers can make shorter trips • It creates development on brownfield sites • Many customers live within walking distance from the UK, therefore UK • It acts as a catalyst for regeneration of new stores suppliers benefit from the in underperforming areas • It is loyal to and committed to the success of the Aldi brand.” • It provides choice and accessibility development of its staff for shoppers in local communities • Its efficient business format keeps costs • Aldi is not a one-stop-shop so it forms part down, prices down and contributes to of a wider weekly food shop, therefore improving the environment shoppers continue to support other • Locally sourced produce benefits local convenience store provisions including suppliers niche and larger stores • At design stage consideration is given to the • Stores encourage linked trips to other local environment, residents and the convenience stores, services and other highway network businesses • It sells quality products at low prices, which • Stores are modest in scale therefore town is attractive to all members of our centres continue to thrive and function side communities by side • Aldi stores serve local communities thus • It creates economic regeneration with jobs complying with national planning policy by in stores, logistics and construction encouraging local sustainable • Local contractors benefit from new stores developments

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primarily residential corridor with pockets of A Retail Assessment was carried out Copplehouse Lane, local shops and services. The A506 Longmoor demonstrating that the proposal was Lane and Valley Road sit to the north of the site sequentially preferable and would not harm Fazakerley providing a main link for customers accessing nearby local or town centres thus complying (Knowsley Borough Council) the site from Fazakerley, Kirkby and Aintree. with the retail policies of the development plan and NPPF. The proposal did not harm the Planning Process open space objectives of the development Store opened in 2014 Whilst the site was located within a primary plan as the bowling green was redundant, and the development encouraged new off site Edge of Centre Site residential area, the existing use was a pub which only traded intermittently. Although planting of trees on main corridors within the prominent, the pub was poorly maintained borough. and its associated bowling green had been used for several years as an outdoor seating The proposal met the sustainable Decision Making Process area. The proposed development was a development objectives of the NPPF by Planning permission was granted welcome enhancement, providing a much encouraging residents to shop locally. unanimously at Committee following officer needed supermarket to serve the local “89% of shoppers shopped recommendation to approve. community. Public Response at the store at least once A postal survey to local residents generated a week.” Site Proposal The application was heard at planning 359 responses with 98.9% support, Demolition of an existing public house and committee with no concern for the loss of the demonstrating the need for a local residential property to form a new Aldi pub or bowling green. Aldi entered into a supermarket to serve the community. supermarket with car park, landscaping, unilateral undertaking providing a commuted servicing and access. sum for the loss of protected trees on the site to Customer Survey be replaced elsewhere in the borough. • 89% of shoppers shopped at the store at 35 Store Size least once a week A single dwelling to the north west became • 52% of shoppers carried out their main jobs 1,497m2 gross/1,007m2 net. available which Aldi acquired for demolition to shopping trip at the foodstore created 21% extend the site’s car park from 73 to 83 spaces. • 80% of shoppers also visit other Site Description A new application to extend the car park was supermarkets including Aintree approved under delegated powers providing The site sits on the corner of Copplehouse Lane • 79% of Aldi shoppers carry out further food sensitive boundary treatment. 79% and Longmoor Lane in a prominent position shopping in Kirkby town centre accommodating the Copplehouse Pub and • 90% of customers live within 3 miles 100m a strong line of trees to the south which Policy Compliance of the store from the were protected by a group TPO. A residential The site was located in a primary residential property to the north west of the site on Moor area. Aldi identified that there were no Benefits local centre Lane was brought into the scheme at a later supermarkets within the defined five minute • The development has significantly date. drivetime catchment area except for local improved and enhanced the appearance Do you do other convenience stores including Co-op within the of an underperforming pub site which was local centre. The nearest town centre at Kirkby food shopping in Sequential Location poorly maintained has consent for a large store which is no Edge of centre location. Located 100m north of • The store was designed with a bespoke the town centre? 1,497m2/ longer to be developed, therefore the wider frontage to reflect the landmark location on 2 Copplehouse local centre. ■ YES 1,007m area has no other supermarkets. a major corridor ■ NO in size Local Environment • The foodstore has removed anti-social The store’s entrance including height and behaviour associated with the former pub The site is located as a standalone store materials was designed to emphasise its • The store employs 30-35 staff within a residential area and a Ford car sales prominent location and comply with the • The store provides the only discount showroom and service garage to the south. Knowsley UDP design objectives. supermarket within the north of Knowsley Copplehouse Lane extends south and is a

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Planning Process Parkside Shopping Planning permission for the regeneration of Centre, Killamarsh Parkside Shopping Centre was approved by Committee in November 2011 followed by a (North East Derbyshire further approval in 2012 to allow amendments District Council) to the scheme focussing on alterations to floor levels and elevations. The proposal Store opened in 2013 was considered to be acceptable due to the town centre location of the scheme, the Town Centre Site regeneration benefits it would bring and the overall enhancement to the public realm. The employment benefits and the improvement of the overall appearance of the Decision Making Process site were also highlighted. The design of the Planning permission was granted development would significantly enhance the “96% of shoppers consider unanimously at Committee following officer character and appearance of the site and its recommendation to approve. surrounding area and reduce incidences of the store has improved anti-social behaviour. Killamarsh town centre.” Site Proposal The regeneration of Parkside Shopping Centre, Policy Compliance including the demolition of an existing retail The 2011 and 2012 proposals complied with the unit and public toilets to provide a new anchor Development Plan and National guidance. foodstore and amendments / upgrading of 6 The proposal was appropriate in policy Customer Survey existing units, car parking areas, linkages to terms as the site is located within the town • 41% of Aldi’s shoppers use Aldi as their • Reduction in anti-social behaviour as a Bridge Street and associated servicing and centre boundary and provides an exciting main shopping choice, but continue to result of the development 30-35 landscaping. opportunity to deliver a regeneration scheme. use competing stores further afield • Customers shop locally, with two thirds jobs The principle of development was therefore including and Asda in Sheffield travelling less than 2 miles to visit the store created encouraged. Store Size to provide a complementary range of encouraging sustainable shopping shopping patterns 1,428m2 gross/990m2 net. The original application was considered to • 88% of shoppers continue to use other be disappointing in terms of the public realm supermarkets too proposals. Improvements to the public realm Site Description • 96% of shoppers consider the store has Town were subsequently proposed and approved improved Killamarsh town centre Site of former retail unit which 29% Centre ceased trading in 2007 along with an existing within the second submission. • 88% of shoppers visit the store at least once Site row of small retail units. a week Public Response 1% 6% Sequential Location The application was supported by both the Benefits 5% 59% Town centre location. council and the public, while no concerns were • The store provides a welcomed alternative raised from local retailers. The regeneration where choice is limited to a Co-operative of the site as a whole was perceived to bring 2 Local Environment supermarket within the local area 1,428m / economic and social benefits to both the site • Redevelopment and regeneration of a 2 Parkside Shopping Centre is surrounded by a 990m and the surrounding area. vacant and underused shopping centre mix of residential, retail and commercial uses in size within a town centre location and falls within the Killamarsh Town Centre How often do you shop here? • 72% of businesses consider the store has boundary. Surrounding uses include residential improved Killamarsh town centre properties, Killamarsh Methodist Church, ■ Once a week ■ More than once a week • 30-35 jobs created bringing an economic Vets Clinic and Killamarsh Adult Community ■ More than once a month ■ Less than once a month benefit to the community Education Centre. The site is bound to the south ■ Once a month by a Co-op foodstore.

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Planning Process It was identified that there was a lack of main Rye Road, Hastings The site was occupied by a former B&Q unit food shopping provision within the area. which was poor in appearance having a (Hastings Borough Council) Therefore the introduction of an Aldi store negative impact on the street scene. Ore and gives local residents the opportunity to shop

North East Hastings lacked any main food locally instead of travelling 5km south to

shopping destinations. Aldi’s own market Hastings to fulfil their shopping needs. research showed that a staggering 80% of Store opened in 2014 local people were shopping outside of the area. Public Response Edge of Centre Site The local community welcomed the Public engagement was essential to explain opportunity to engage with Aldi thus allaying the proposal to councillors, stakeholders any concerns about impact on Ore district and residents to address their concerns. centre. Aldi attended a council run Pre-Application Decision Making Process Development Forum which was well attended Customer Survey Planning permission was granted at giving the community the opportunity to ask • 24% of shoppers walk to the store “76% of people supported Committee unanimously following officer questions and for Aldi to allay any concerns. demonstrating Aldi is easily accessible recommendation to approve. Whilst there was strong support, Ward the scheme.” within the community councillors expressed concerns about the • 61% of shoppers visit the store at least once Site Proposal scheme, including the potential impact on a week demonstrating Aldi provides a local Demolition of existing DIY store and provision Ore Village. offer keeping spend local of replacement supermarket together • 44% of shoppers use the store as their main with associated landscaping and 70 car Aldi’s consultation included issuing leaflets shop whilst 10% use it as a main and top up parking spaces. to over 1,300 residential and business destination addresses locally asking for their opinion on • 76% of people supported the scheme the proposal. Almost 200 people responded Store Size 40+ with 76% in support of the scheme. Officers jobs 1,249m2 gross/990m2 net. Benefits accepted the planning case for the need created for a local supermarket to serve Ore. At the • The store has significantly improved the street scene and introduced an active Site Description Planning Committee, members recognised the considerable support for the application frontage on the Rye Road corridor by The brownfield site is located within the and commended Aldi for the way they had replacing the former B&Q store which was Hastings Urban Area Boundary where there engaged with the local community to obtain an eyesore 24% was an established and existing retail use of their views as part of the application process. • Customers can shop locally more Edge of the former B&Q unit. It was considered that the The same Ward councillors who had previously frequently saving on travel costs to larger large warehouse unit did not complement the Centre raised concerns acknowledged that these had stores outside of the local area 68% character of the surrounding area. 5% Site been fully allayed and also welcomed Aldi’s • Many customers can walk to the store approach to community consultation. • The creation of over 40 jobs for local people Sequential Location Edge of centre location. The site is 130m to the Policy Compliance 3% north of Ore Village District Centre. The foodstore is located in an existing and 2 established retail destination within the 1,249m / 2 Local Environment defined urban area of Hastings. The site was 990m The site is located as a standalone store not allocated for a specific use and the principle Mode of Travel in size immediately surrounded by residential of redevelopment and continued retail use was ■ ■ properties and within walking distance of deemed to be acceptable and in accordance Car (Driver) Car (Passenger) ■ Bus ■ Walk Ore High Street to the south. with national and local planning policy.

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the north west of the foodstore. In addition, the use of a foodstore accorded Thaxted Road, Residential properties are located with the council’s emerging Local Plan which is approximately 500 metres to the north. informed by an up-to-date evidence base. Saffron Walden (Uttlesford District Council) Planning Process The proposal promoted sustainable economic The site had a lengthy planning history, development, attracting investment and including two attempts by Sainsbury’s to jobs for the benefit of Saffron Walden. The regeneration benefits support relevant saved Store opened in 2015 obtain consent. Following refusal of a 2012 scheme due to the potential impact on the policies of the adopted Uttlesford Local Plan, Out of Centre Site town centre, Sainsbury’s submitted a revised and the emerging Uttlesford Local Plan, as well scheme which reduced the size of the store. as the NPPF. This proposal was appealed and dismissed based on the potential impact on the town Public Response Decision Making Process centre. Following this, consent was granted The store has proved extremely popular with Planning permission was granted at for a predominantly non-food scheme. residents since opening. Many people were Committee following officer recommendation already Aldi shoppers before travelling to “64% of respondents to approve. Aldi’s proposal was submitted as part of a Haverhill (15km away) and Bishop’s Stortford wider non-food redevelopment scheme. In (20km away), therefore the store has shopped at the store Site Proposal granting consent, Planning Officers noted the provided a local and more convenient facility. at least once a week.” The proposed foodstore was part of a wider materially different nature of Aldi’s offer and Customers were pleased that they now had proposal comprising: concluded that this was sufficient to overcome choice which was otherwise dominated by potential retail impact concerns related to the Waitrose and Tesco. Demolition of the existing buildings and Sainsbury’s proposals. Nonetheless, concerns therefore creating further job opportunities redevelopment to comprise retail warehouse from the town council and local councillors still Customer Survey and has enhanced the local economy units and associated garden centre (Class A1), a remained in relation to the potential impact on • 64% of respondents shopped at the store at • The store employs 35-40 staff discount foodstore (Class A1) and a café (Class A3). Saffron Walden Town Centre. least once a week • Aldi brings a discount supermarket offer to 35-40 • 58% of respondents carried out their main the community with more than half jobs Store Size Since opening, the store has proven extremely shopping trip at the foodstore travelling no more than 4 miles, so keeping created 1,578m2 gross/1,125m2 net. popular with residents. • 87% of shoppers also visit other shopping local and encouraging supermarkets including Waitrose and Tesco sustainable shopping patterns by reducing Site Description Policy Compliance • 49% of Aldi shoppers carry out further food the need to travel to other towns The site sits in a largely elevated position, The site was allocated as a Key Employment shopping in Saffron Walden Town Centre bound to the south west by Thaxted Road and site within the adopted Local Plan but • The majority of businesses considered the remained vacant for a number of years. Aldi had not had a negative impact on the Out of Tiptoft Lane to the north. 1%1% 50% The Local Plan was considered to be out of date town centre 2% 2% Centre Site The application site formerly consisted of therefore more weight was given to the NPPF • Specialist convenience retailers 11% vacant and redundant industrial warehouse when determining the application. The NPPF (e.g. butchers and delicatessens) in the 33% units as well as land comprising the former advises that if there is no reasonable prospect town centre considered they were not in civic refuse site. of the site being used for employment uses, its direct competition with Aldi as they provide long term protection should be avoided and a superior product which customers would applications for alternative uses should be visit specifically 1,578m2/ Sequential Location considered on their own merits having regard 1,125m2 Out of centre location. to market signals and the relative need to Benefits support sustainable local communities. in size • The development has significantly improved Which other supermarkets Local Environment Robust justification for the loss of employment and enhanced the appearance of a The site is located as a standalone store as part land was provided and accepted by the previously vacant brownfield site do you use? of a wider retail park which is being developed council. The proposed development would • The foodstore has acted as a catalyst for ■ Tesco ■ All Supermarkets as Phase 2. Saffron Walden Centre is the represent economic development and redevelopment on the wider retail scheme, ■ Waitrose ■ M&S nearest defined centre and is located 1.6km to promote economic growth. ■ Sainsbury’s ■ Nisa ■ Asda

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