Aldi South Group, operator of discount grocery chain Aldi, announced a sweeping redesign effort among its U.S. stores, according to Forbes.
Trials began in late 2025 in Aventura, Florida, with future experimentation set to take place in 2026 across the country. Here’s what Illinois shoppers should know.
What’s happening at Aldi stores?
In collaboration with longtime partner Landini Associates, the group is introducing a modular redesign adaptable for varying store formats, building types and locations.
Forbes reported that the new model will aim to create a “more flexible environment” in stores while balancing affordable costs with shifting shopping patterns and local real estate constraints.
What will change at Aldi stores during redesign?
The redesign will span all the way from architecture and interior design to signage, packaging and “tone of voice,” creating a “cohesive brand experience,” according to Forbes.
Where will Aldi be testing the new design? Will Illinois stores be included?
Landini Associates announced on its website that experimentation will continue across the U.S. in 2026, with local teams refining the approach in the remaining territories from the second quarter of 2026 on.
Aldi to open 180 new stores in 2026
The grocery chain announced in January that it will be opening 180 new stores across 31 states this year, bringing its U.S. store count to nearly 2,800 as it pushes toward a goal of 3,200 stores by the end of 2028.
As part of the expansion, the retailer will enter new states, including Maine and Colorado, while growing its presence in the West. It will also be converting dozens of locations of Southeastern Grocers, the parent company of Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket, that it acquired in March 2024.
An Aldi spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY that Illinois is one of 31 states that will gain new stores.
CONTRIBUTING: Melina Khan, USA TODAY
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Aldi redesign coming to Illinois stores in 2026. What to expect
Reporting by Hannah Hudnall, Peoria Journal Star / Journal Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
