The International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) has named Aldi on of the four “hottest shopping concepts in the US” for 2011, just two years after becoming “Retailer of the year” as voted by the private label sector.
Rewarding Aldi’s excellence
“Every year ICSC recognizes retailers that create unique and exciting shopping experiences that draw consumers into shopping centres around the world,” said Michael P. Kercheval, ICSC’s president and CEO. “These retailers provide outstanding products and services thereby contributing to the overall success of the shopping centres that have them as tenants.”
While the three others are American and up-market (women sportswear producer Athleta, hamburger chain Smashburger and fashion lifestyle company Fossil), German hard discounter Aldi is somewhat of an intruder among the award winners.
Revolutionary concept
While familiar in Europe, Aldi’s concept was revolutionary in the US. No big brands, no electronics, no drugs and just a very limited assortment: it appeals to 20 million Americans each month. Since its introduction in 1976, Aldi has grown to 1100 stores in 31 states.
The ICSC was founded in 1957 and is now the biggest shopping centre organisation in the world, uniting 55,000 members from almost 100 countries.
