Aldi's - Tip # 1

One of my favorite grocery stores is called Aldi's.  This store was started in 1976, in Iowa, by a man named Karl Albrecht. Old Karl is one of the richest men in the world according to Forbes Magazine. He has an estimated net worth of 21.5 billion and is the wealthiest man in Germany. There are now over 1000 stores in 29 states.

I have many friends who have never stepped foot in an Aldi's although they don't think twice about going into a Sam's Club or Costco.  Aldi's is a lot like the big box club stores except you don't have to buy a year's worth of stuff or pay for a membership. Here's why you should shop there:

• Your car will never be dented by a grocery cart, and the cart you get will always be in working condition. In the parking lot, under cover you will find the carts. Put a quarter into the slot to release the cart, return your cart and get your quarter back. No other store in America (that I know of) will do this.
• You have to bring your own bags. I like how forward thinking this store is. They were green before going green was cool. Remember this store was started by a European - where bringing your own bags is the norm not the exception. You can also purchase bags if you like.
• The produce is a bargain.  You just won't get a better price. With few exceptions, they only carry what is in season. So if you want strawberries in November you'll have to go somewhere else.
• Frozen fish. Last week I found a pound of wild salmon that had been flash frozen in 4-oz. portions with no preservatives for $3.99. Granted it came from China not Alaska but for $3.99 and the convenience of the packaging you just can't beat it.  I also got a pound of peel and eat shrimp for $3.99.

• Dairy. Milk has been steady at $1.98 a gallon for the past year and large eggs are $.89 a dozen. Sometimes you can even find fresh mozzarella.
• They sell products called "Fit & Active". They list calories, total fat, fiber and sodium on the front of the product. These products cost much less at Aldi's then your typical grocery store.
• Special purchases. This weeks special is a laminating machine for $19.99. I got an electric tea kettle for $9.99. Where in America can you find an electric tea kettle? Each week they have a theme and the special purchases seem to adhere to the theme. 
• Chocolate. They have European chocolate bars at an unbelievable bargain. They also have a wonderful assortment of Easter and Christmas chocolates.  Get there early. I've seen people fill up a grocery cart with these beautiful Belgium treats.
• Guarantee. If you are unhappy with your purchase you can return it and they will not only replace the product but they will also give you back your money.

I hope you will give it a try and let me know what you think. Life is good - enjoy!