Aldi looks set to make its foray into the Chinese market through an online store, according toRetail Detail Europe.
The web-based platform will sell both imported and locally procured items, with Aldi’s Australian subsidiary set to be a key source of supply. It is understood that several of Aldi’s Australian suppliers have been informed of the move and are preparing to service the world’s most populated market.
Aldi registered the domain www.aldi.cn a number of years ago. It is the first time the German-headquartered discounter has used an online platform to enter a new market, although it has not ruled out the prospect of opening bricks and mortar stores across the People’s Republic.
The move will pit Aldi against China’s two e-commerce giants Alibaba and JD.com, which have been popular avenues to market for rival retailers.
