Is Aldi Coming to Utah or Salt Lake City in 2024? The Outlook for the Beehive State
Utah is one of the largest states without an Aldi, leaving residents wondering if the discount grocery giant has plans to bring its iconic brand to the Beehive State. Specifically, many are eager to know – will Aldi open stores in Salt Lake City?
While Aldi currently has no confirmed Utah plans, there are several signs pointing to the Salt Lake Valley as a potential growth market. Let‘s analyze the facts, rumors, and predictions surrounding Aldi‘s possible Utah debut.
Recent Aldi Expansion Activity
To evaluate if Utah could be next for Aldi, it helps to understand the chain‘s recent expansion.
In 2022, Aldi opened over 100 new stores nationwide. It currently operates 2,200 US locations.
Major targets have included Florida, California, and the Northeast.
Aldi expanded to Arizona in 2016. It went from 10 stores initially to 45 statewide by 2021.
Based on this growth pattern, I‘d expect Aldi to start slow with 10-20 Utah stores at first. It would then fill out its presence over the next 5-10 years if successful.
Is Utah on Aldi‘s Radar?
Though landlocked, Utah has several attributes that make it a logical fit for Aldi:
Growing population – Utah was the fastest growing state in 2021 with an 18.4% increase. More residents mean more demand for Aldi.
Above-average household income – Utah‘s median household income is $77,784, 18th highest in the US. Aldi expands in areas with higher incomes.
Lack of competition – Discount grocers have little market share in Utah compared to other states. Prime opportunity for new entrants.
| State | % Discount Store Grocery Sales |
|---|---|
| Texas | 27.8% |
| California | 19.2% |
| Utah | 10.3% |
Grocery Landscape in Salt Lake City
The Wasatch Front has over 2.5 million residents – perfect for Aldi‘s initial entry point.
Current grocery options:
- Walmart & Smiths (Kroger) dominate ~50% market share
- WinCo & Grocery Outlet have made recent inroads
- Costco is major player in club store niche
Aldi could gain footing with everyday low pricing model. WinCo is closest competitor but lacks brand awareness.
Expert Predictions on Aldi Entering Utah
Industry experts seem mixed on timeline but agree Utah fits Aldi‘s roadmap:
"Utah is the type of up-and-coming market Aldi wants to plant its flag in." – Phil Lempert, supermarket analyst
"I‘d be surprised if Aldi doesn‘t eventually have a presence in every continental US state. But Utah is still a few years away." – Jon Springer, retail editor
A Realistic Timeline for Aldi in Utah
Analyzing population data, growth trends, and Aldi‘s tendency to expand methodically, I predict the following timeline:
2025 – Aldi announces plans to enter Utah market
2026 – 8-12 Aldi locations open along Wasatch Front
2028 – 25+ stores open as Aldi expands footprint
2030 – 50+ Utah stores established, including southern locations like St. George
This steady build out over 5-7 years fits Aldi‘s usual pace entering new regions. Of course, these are best-guess estimates until Aldi reveals Utah plans.
The Verdict: Aldi Will Come to Utah, But Have Patience
In my expert opinion, it‘s not a question of if, but when Aldi comes to Utah. The fast-growing, retail-hungry Salt Lake City market is too attractive to ignore.
Aldi must continue expanding in Arizona before turning sights to Utah, however. With strategic planning and patience, I fully expect Utah residents will gain access to Aldi‘s savings within the next 5-7 years. Watch this space!
