Aldi says ‘no plans for NT expansion’ despite Luke Gosling’s push

Despite growing demand and political advocacy, Aldi remains hesitant to expand into the Northern Territory.

Despite growing demand and political advocacy, Aldi remains hesitant to expand into the Northern Territory. Picture: NewsWire / Glenn Campbell

The Northern Territory’s long wait for an Aldi supermarket is going to continue for the time being.

The discount grocer has ruled out any short term plans to opening a store in Darwin.

Solomon MP Luke Gosling, who has been campaigning for Aldi to come to Darwin or Palmerston, met with company representatives in Sydney.

While the retailer did not shut the door completely, Mr Gosling said their message was clear that there are no plans for Aldi to expand into the NT at this time.

Mr Gosling has taken heart that the popular discount store has not ruled out ever opening a store in the Northern Territory.

Aldi has recently expanded into regional North Queensland, opening stores in Townsville, Mackay, and Rockhampton, with 116 stores now operating across the state.

Mr Gosling believes the same model could work in Greater Darwin and even in remote communities through partnerships with local stores.

His push aligns with the federal government’s recently announced 10-year strategy to improve food security in remote First Nations communities.

He says Aldi’s commitment to addressing food insecurity should include the NT, where the issue is most severe.

“I will be continuing my private and public advocacy until Aldi adopts a more open-minded approach,” Gosling said.

For now, NT residents hoping for a cheaper grocery alternative will have to keep waiting.

Originally published as Aldi says ‘no plans for NT expansion’ despite Luke Gosling’s push