Three years ago there were no Aldi locations in the Northland.  Now - with the news that they're getting set to open a location in Cloquet near the end of 2018, the arrowhead region will boast 4 officials stores - with a fifth rumored and unconfirmed.

What we do know is that Aldi will open a location in Cloquet by the end of December 2018.  According to news sources, the grocery store will be located right across the street from mainstay Northland giant Super One Foods - near the Perkins.   The move will bring competition back to a community that has dwindled down in supermarket choices over the last 20 years or so.

A fifth location - in Virginia, Minnesota - has been loudly hinted at but as of this point there is no official confirmation from the company or the city.

Aldi differs from a traditional grocery store in  that they carry a significantly smaller numbers of items - and those are usually in-house store-brands.  The trade-off is significantly cheaper prices - especially on staple goods and produce.  Customers must also bring their own bags and walk their car back to the store to retrieve the quarter it costs to "rent" one.

Reception to the already-open locations (in Superior, Duluth, and Grand Rapids) has been strong.  A casual observance of foot traffic reveals that the stores are steadily busy.

 

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