If you've ever found yourself on a trip to Aldi, then you'll be aware just how enticing and popular the supermarket's iconic middle aisle can be.

Dubbed 'Specialbuys', the supermarket's range has garnered a massive following over the years for its massive range. From air fryers to beauty products, there is not much that the infamous aisle hasn't been known to stock.

To make sure you don't miss out, a top boss has shared some insider knowledge. Julie Ashfield, Aldi's Manging Director of Buying, explains the strategy behind selecting the products that cause a frenzy among shoppers and offers advice on how to secure the top bargains, reports WalesOnline.

"Our customers expect us to deliver top quality products for a fraction of the price of other retailers and our middle aisle has a reputation for providing just that," she commented. "With a wide range of products from homeware and cookware to unique gifting and toys, our Specialbuys offer customers a one-stop-shop for any need and occasion."

How can people get the best of Aldi's Specialbuy ranges?

For those looking to make the most of Aldi's Specialbuy offerings, new items hit the shelves every Thursday and Sunday in the store's central Specialbuy section. These include a variety of must-have household goods, children's toys, and beauty essentials, all at affordable prices.

These are, however, limited-edition deals and once they're gone, they're gone. Julie advises: "To avoid missing out, a top tip is to sign up to the weekly newsletter to be one of the first to hear about new launches and returning best-sellers."

"Or, why not follow our dedicated Specialbuys Instagram account- @aldispecialbuysuk for a sneak peek into upcoming products? ".

How does Aldi decide what to sell in the middle aisle?

"We look closely at current and upcoming trends and make them our own, ensuring they're right for our customers" Julie explains. "We strive for our ranges to be on-trend while remaining practical, great quality and at a fantastic price point."

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How to join Aldi's Cult Beauty Club.

Aldi has opened the doors to its cult Beauty Club for a second year running. The supermarket is recruiting 20 makeup enthusiasts to trial, test, and review on-trend Lacura beauty products before they land on shelves this summer.

Applications are now open and will close on Friday, May 3. To apply, shoppers will need to email the following details to Aldibeautyclub@clarioncomms.co.uk:

  • Full name
  • Proof of age (copy of passport or driving licence)
  • TikTok and Instagram handles (accounts must be open/not private)
  • 150-word explanation as to why they should be chosen for the position
  • Favourite Lacura product and why

What are the most popular Specialbuys?

A general image of the middle aisle, Specialbuys, section of Aldi
Aldi's middle aisle is famously popular among shoppers every Thursday and Sunday

Julie said: "Our best-performing ranges showcase the demand for great value yet high-quality products. Our £5 back-to-school uniform bundle remains popular year after year as parents look for the best deals during what can be an expensive time."

"Wooden toys also continue to be one of our most popular offerings, with last year's bestseller from the range being the Wooden Toy Kitchen."

"For homeware fanatics we recently worked with Instagram interior influencer Jade, @feel.at.home.inspo, to show shoppers that staying on trend doesn't need to cost the earth. Jade transformed her home using less than £100 worth of products from our Spring Home range."

Are there any upcoming Specialbuys to know about?

For those looking to encourage their kids to play in the fresh air, Aldi's adorable outdoor play range is available in stores from April 25. Julie says: "My favourites from this range include the Wooden Climbing Arch (£59.99) and the Wooden Triangle (£59.99), both timeless classics and perfect for little ones to develop motor skills as well."

"Seeing a garden transform is so satisfying, and for those looking to keep their garden in tip-top shape, we have the Electric Weed Killer (£19.99), available in stores from May 2. A must-have for gardeners to save time and energy spent on weeding, easily killing weeds without using gas or harmful chemicals."

"Also available from May 2 we have practical and stylish planters including the Stone Effect Planter (£9.99) and Amesbury Planter (£16.99). For homeware fans, our sell-out Milk Frother (£19.99) is coming back to stores from May 9."

"We know this particular product has a dedicated online following, and with a new Scandi-style design our shoppers will be delighted that they can also pick up a matching Kettle (£19.99) and Toaster (£19.99). Our sell-out 5.5L Air Fryer (£34.99) will also be returning this May along with a 17L Microwave (£49.99)."

Coming up, what's in store for shoppers?

Skincare fanatics can rejoice as Lacura announces the launch of a new BHA Clearing Cleanser (£3.99, 150ml) to its line-up which is dermatologically tested and cruelty-free. In addition, the well-liked Lacura 2% BHA Toner (£4.49, 100ml), aimed at managing breakouts and blackheads, makes its return to shelves from May 5, available while stocks last.

Following the 'self-care' trend, the new Apothecary range launches on May 13, offering the brand new Apothecary Candle (£3.49, 200g) and Reed Diffuser (£3.49, 100ml). Available in three distinctive fragrances: Relax, Unwind, and Revive.

What else can shoppers expect?

Skincare fans will be thrilled as Lacura will be launching a new BHA Clearing Cleanser (£3.99, 150ml) to its dermatologically tested and cruelty-free line-up. Plus, the popular Lacura 2% BHA Toner (£4.49, 100ml), which aims to reduce breakouts and blackheads, will also be making its return to shelves from May 5, whilst stocks last.

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