Did Aldi Just Launch a New Membership?

In the words of Harry Nilsson, let me tell you ‘bout my best friend! It’s a German grocery store known for its low prices, high-quality products, and one particular “aisle of shame.” Though, I feel no shame professing my love for Aldi.

The humble grocery store, which is the fastest-growing chain in the U.S., is already known for its crafty techniques that keep its prices low for customers. That’s why no Aldi stores play music or have phones—and why locations have a smaller layout to provide less distraction and easier, more organized shopping for customers.

Now, in a world filled with premium memberships and subscriptions that require customers to pay a fee for a better shopping experience, Aldi is making headlines with its own Aldi+ membership.

Do You Need a Membership to Shop at Aldi?

Aldi launched its Aldi+ membership on April 8, which apparently garnered 331.9 million members on the first day. How is that possible? Aldi+ membership is a super-exclusive club that every single person in the U.S. is in—and it costs zero dollars. That’s because you don’t actually need a membership to shop at Aldi and never have. 

Aldi’s beloved products and low prices are free for every Aldi shopper. Well, unless you count that quarter needed to rent your buggy—but even that’s always returned to you.

Sure, the fake membership might be a bit of a belated April Fools’ Day joke, but saving money is never a laughing matter. That’s why Aldi is highlighting its everyday low prices—while poking fun at its competitors who sell memberships. 

“You save up to 40% on groceries compared to other stores just by shopping here. Kinda makes you wonder why other grocery stores have memberships at all? Why don’t they just…lower their prices? Never pay extra to shop,” Aldi says on its Aldi+ web page.

So no, you don’t—and won’t—need a membership to shop at the fan-favorite grocery store. What are you waiting for? Get to the store—those Aldi Finds won’t be on the shelf forever!