"As ALDI continues to evolve by expanding its product lines and moving into new markets, the way we do business will continue to evolve as well," said Aldi CEO Jason Hart.
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Discount German grocer Aldi is now accepting major credit cards -- including Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express -- at all 1,500 of its stores nationwide.
"As ALDI continues to evolve by expanding its product lines and moving into new markets, the way we do business will continue to evolve as well," said Aldi Chief Executive Jason Hart, in a written announcement. "We care about being able to make our customers' shopping experiences simpler and better every time they come to see us; and offering them the convenience of using their credit cards will help us do just that."
No-frills ALDI, with nearly 1,500 stores in 32 states, including more than 30 stores in Greater Cleveland, sells a limited assortment of fresh produce, including organics, dairy, gluten-free foods, U.S.D.A. Choice beef and bakery items, at prices it says are 50 percent less than its competitors.
More than 90 percent of its foods are sold under private-label Aldi brands, which the company says are also free of added MSG, certified synthetic colors, and partially hydrogenated oils.
Aldi, which opened a store in Avon on Jan. 22, 2015, and is expanding to Southern California later this month, said it plans to have nearly 2,000 stores nationwide by the end of 2018.
Aldi said accepting credit cards will not affect the price of its foods.