ALDI Supplier Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become an ALDI Supplier?
Go to ALDI US - Become a Supplier and complete our New Supplier Application for our team to review.
What documents will I be asked to submit if chosen to become a supplier?
Our Quality Assurance team will require a copy of your GFSI-approved third party audit report and certificate for all food manufacturing facilities that service ALDI. They will also require a copy of your GMP certificate for all supplier owned warehouses. In addition, suppliers are required to provide a certificate of insurance and to sign our ALDI Master Purchase Agreement.
Can I submit a deck outlining company and product information along with the New Supplier Application?
Yes, it is encouraged that a new supplier submits visuals to showcase your company and products available.
What is an ALDI Find?
An ALDI Find is a two-week in & out promotion. You will provide a specific quantity of product one time, typically to all our divisions. If the promotion does well, we may consider repeating it, most likely the same time next year.
If an ALDI Find product does not sell through within the two-week promotion, are we responsible for taking back unsold product?
ALDI does not return any unsold product (non-food exceptions based on warranties).
What is a seasonal item?
A seasonal item is an extended in & out promotion designed to sell through in 3-4 months. You will provide a specific quantity of product, typically to all of our divisions and if the promotion does well, we may consider repeating it the same time next year.
What is a mixed case?
A mixed case is a single case comprised of multiple varieties of a given product. For example, a mixed case may contain three units of Creamy Peanut Butter along with three units of Crunchy Peanut Butter. Not all ALDI products require a mixed case.
What is Private Label?
Private Label refers to our own brand name on our products. Many of our products are proprietary ALDI brands. ALDI private label product quality meets or exceeds equivalent national brand items sold in other national retail chains.
What is a Display Ready Case (DRC)?
A Display Ready Case refers to the outer case product is shipped in that should be ready to merchandise within our ALDI stores with no repacking necessary. It is required for both private label and national brand food items and many non-food items. A DRC must have the following attributes:
- Fully printed.
- Easy to open and easy to display on shelf.
- Allow the product to be shopped easily.
- Be stable and protect product throughout transit to stores.
Who is responsible for the label/case artwork fees? Can we use our own art agency?
The supplier is responsible for artwork fees. ALDI suppliers must work with our third-party artwork agency that oversees ALDI branding and cover all design fees. ALDI Suppliers will use their own printer.
What is an Advanced Shipping Notice (ASN)?
As ASN is an electronic form of communication used to enhance visibility of product movements between Business Partners and ALDI Stores. These required digital delivery documents will notify ALDI Stores' DCs that a shipment has been created against a purchase order (PO) with specific item(s) and quantities. ASNs detail the physical contents of a shipment and when it is expected for delivery.
What is a License Plate Number (LPN)?
To identify products on physical pallets provided by Business Partners, ALDI will use industry standard license plate numbers (LPNs). Business Partners must ensure each pallet sent to an ALDI DC has two LPN labels that contain a machine-readable, GS1 industry standard SSCC. LPN specifications and requirements are detailed below. An LPN label is required when delivering products on pallets to any ALDI DC where an ASN is required.
Can I schedule a meeting with a Buying Director?
Once your submission has been reviewed, someone from the buying team will contact you to discuss next steps.
Is it important for a supplier to visit an ALDI store?
Yes, a store visit is very important so that you can view our core range items, ALDI Find items, seasonal items, display cases and artwork.
Will I need to have my products tested by a 3rd party testing facility?
Yes, if you are chosen to become an ALDI supplier, we will request you send your product to an ALDI approved 3rd party testing facility. ALDI also does internal product testing routinely throughout the year on all products.