Aldi launches natural own label products in US

Discount grocer Aldi has launched SimplyNature, an own-label line of natural and organic products, i…

Discount grocer Aldi has launched SimplyNature, an own-label line of natural and organic products, in the US.

The range comprises of ambient and chilled products, including cereal, fruit bars, honey and juices to pasta sauce, pizza, salsa and snacks.

Aldi US president Chuck Youngstrom said the range offered consumers "high-quality" and nutritious natural or organic products at an "affordable price".

Aldi has also worked to expand its offering of fresh produce and has increased the number of organic and locally-sourced items it offers.

Before Christmas, Aldi announced plans to step up the rate at which it will open stores in the US.

The German discount retail giant, which has 1,300 outlets, in 32 US states, said it planned to open an average of 130 stores a year for the next five years, up from a rate of 80.

The privately-owned retailer said it would spend more than US$3bn buying land, facilities and equipment.

When the expansion is complete, Aldi expects to have stores "coast-to-coast". It expects to create more than 10,000 new jobs at its stores.