Shopping at ALDI isn’t like other Coast grocery stores. Here’s what you need to know.

ALDI, a popular grocery store chain, will soon open a store in Ocean Springs, the first in South Mississippi’s three Coast counties.

Construction will begin soon near the Walmart on Bienville Boulevard, Mayor Kenny Holloway confirmed to the Sun Herald.

But ALDI, which is set to be third largest grocery retailer by the end of 2022, is different from any other grocery shopping experience on the Coast.

From the shopping cart policy to bag purchasing to buying in bulk, here’s everything you need to know about the grocery option coming soon.

Does ALDI sell name brand products?

More than 90% of the products on shelves are ALDI brand, the company says on their website.

“ALDI exclusive brands allow us to provide the same high-quality product without passing on all of the hidden costs associated with the national brands, such as marketing and advertising,” the store says.

The chain did add some national brands inside stores after receiving customer feedback. ALDI may also carry national brands of products if they are not able “to procure an exclusive brand product that meets or exceeds the quality and taste of the national brand.”

Do I have to pay to use a buggy?

ALDI stores require a 25 cent deposit to use a shopping cart. When a shopper returns the cart, the quarter is returned.

Do I have to bring my own bags?

ALDI encourages shoppers to bring their own reusable bags, but you can purchase ALDI shopping bags at the store.

“Given our simple approach to retailing, one of the ways we help our customers save money is by encouraging them to bring their own shopping bags or to purchase a reusable, long-lasting ALDI bag,” the chain says. “The end result is that we not only save our customers money – by avoiding adding the cost of the bag to our prices – but also precious resources.”

Do I need a membership?

Memberships to shop at ALDI are not required.

Can I buy in bulk?

Shoppers can buy in bulk at ALDI. The chain asks that you set up bulk orders with a store manager.

Are masks required?

ALDI requires all employees to wear masks and strongly encourages shoppers to mask up.

Shoppers will find hand sanitizer stations throughout the store, and the chain says the regularly clean and disinfect shopping carts during the COVID pandemic.

Is grocery pickup an option?

ALDI says grocery pickup is available at each store.