Aldi is capitalizing on Trader Joe’s popularity by releasing its own version of the highly sought-after Kimbap, a Korean sushi roll, for just $3.49. This strategic move reflects Aldi’s ongoing efforts to compete directly with its biggest rival, Trader Joe’s, and cater to the growing demand for unique and affordable international foods. The Kimbap is currently available in the frozen aisle and comes in two distinct flavors: Traditional and Tuna Mayo. The Traditional Kimbap is described as a ‘Korean-style imitation crab, egg, carrots, spinach, and pickled daikon in a seaweed rice roll,’ offering a familiar yet subtly different take on the classic sushi experience. For those seeking a bolder flavor, the Tuna Mayo Kimbap features ‘Tuna mayo & perilla leaf in a seaweed rice roll,’ providing a savory and herbaceous option. This isn’t Aldi’s first foray into the sushi market; they’ve previously offered Kimbap in Spicy Tuna With Gochujang, Kimchi & Tofu, Spicy Salmon and BBQ Beef Bulgogi flavors, demonstrating a commitment to expanding their international offerings.
The response from Aldi shoppers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their enthusiasm on social media platforms like Reddit. One shopper shared, "I grabbed both the other day while I was on my break, I liked the tofu kimchi more but the spicy tuna was good also." Another noted, "I went back to get more, and was grateful to see folks had snapped up the spicy tuna and left the tofu ones behind." However, some shoppers are encountering difficulties locating the Kimbap at their local Aldi stores, with a few reporting that Trader Joe’s remains the only source. This highlights potential supply chain challenges and underscores the intense competition between the two supermarkets.
As of May 12, 2025, Aldi operates 2,510 stores across 41 states and territories in the United States, with Florida leading the way at 244 locations, followed by Illinois (215) and Ohio (170). The company plans to open 225 new stores by the end of the year, and anticipates expanding to 800 locations by 2028, including the conversion of 220 Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket stores to smaller Aldi formats by 2027. Aldi CEO Jason Hart stated, "With the acquisition of Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarkets, Aldi will serve even more communities in the Southeast, bringing us closer to our customers in a region where we’ve already experienced significant demand for affordable, quality groceries." Recent openings include locations in Washington, Philadelphia and on Staten Island, with a significant number (18) situated in Florida, largely converted former Winn-Dixie locations. This strategic expansion reflects Aldi’s ambition to solidify its position as a major player in the grocery market and continue offering consumers competitive prices and diverse product selections."
