The high word is out: Aldi is moving to Deventer, with a 42,000-square-metre property replacing the current distribution centres in Groenlo and Ommen.
From Deventer, Aldi will supply around 120 stores, about a quarter of Aldi shops in the Netherlands. The site will employ some 350 people. Aldi considers the move necessary to further optimise its logistics in the east. The plot along the A1 motorway in Deventer offers room for future expansion.
"To facilitate Aldi's growth ambitions in the Netherlands, optimisation of our logistics is necessary. These plans fit well with Aldi's renewal strategy. In recent years, for example, many shops have been renovated and adapted and shops have been added," says Luc Schepers, currently regional director of Aldi Groenlo, in future regional director of Aldi Deventer.
Aldi: 'Everyone can join'
The works councils of the distribution centres and Groenlo and Ommen have now given the green light to the plans. "We understand that these changes will affect our employees. We are preparing a proper social plan that will be discussed with those affected," the discounter said. Aldi stresses that everyone from the current DCs can move with them to Deventer. "Retaining our people is paramount."
Operational in 2021
Construction is expected to start this summer. The distribution centre should be operational by the end of 2021. Around that time, the sites in Ommen and Groenlo will close their doors.
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