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Aldi is jumping into the battle to crack down on food waste with its latest bargain initiative. The grocer is rolling out 11 new stores across the UK which will be home to just discounted products - but there's a catch. Unfortunately, only Aldi staff will be able to pick up cheaper products at the branches, which will be located at all 11 of Aldi’s regional distribution centres across Britain. This will include hubs in Bathgate, Darlington, Bolton, Goldthorpe, Neston, Sawley, Atherstone, Cardiff, Swindon, Chelmsford and Sheppey. Aldi's decision to take the leap and open staff-only stores comes after the brand trialled the food waste initiative in Darlington, with the idea proving a success. READ MORE: Aldi set to launch dedicated new zones in UK supermarkets The supermarket's scheme is all part of a larger plan for the group to be more eco-friendly and cut food waste by 90 per cent by 2030, compared to 2017 levels, the Sun reported. Luke Emery, national sustainability director at Aldi UK, said: “The colleague shop is another example of how we’re working to cut food waste across our operations. “It’s a practical initiative that benefits both colleagues and the environment, and we’re pleased to extend it nationwide following a successful pilot.” Under this initiative, it has been predicted 240 tonnes of food waste could be saved from the bins, instead being taken home to feed families across the UK. While some customers may be disappointed the discount branches are just for staff, A ldi has announced plans to include a dedicated "reduction zone" in stores to help shoppers to find cheaper food product, in addition to reducing landfill. Aldi said the section will feature reduced bread, fresh produce, and other items nearing their use-by date. The new zones will also allow the supermarket to cut unnecessary food waste. Items will be discounted throughout the day. READ MORE: M&S makes major five-day change to collection service ahead of Christmas Day Mr Emery added: “Our customers already know they can rely on us to provide unbeatable value, but our new reduction areas will make it even easier to pick up a last-minute bargain. “By creating dedicated reduction zones in store, we’re helping point shoppers towards quality food at cheaper prices, all while cutting down on food waste."
