Aldi trials £10 charge for shoppers entering supermarket with new self-checkout rules
Aldi trials £10 charge for shoppers entering supermarket with new self-checkout rules
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ALDI has introduced a £10 pre-payment for shoppers entering a checkout-free store in Greenwich, sparking frustration among customers. A deposit is taken before entry and deducted from the final bill, but those spending less than £10 or leaving empty handed could wait days for a refund.
![[Aldi grocery store self-checkout lanes with customers.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/self-checkout-machines-aldi-grocery-959955515.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
The 'pre-authorisation' charge applies to both app users and contactless shoppers at the Shop & Go store. Customers tapping their card at the entrance or generating a QR code through the app are automatically charged £10 before being allowed inside. A refund is issued if they spend less than £10 - but the timing depends on the customers's bank or card provider.
![[Customer using a self-checkout terminal at a supermarket.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/customer-uses-self-checkout-terminal-871212132.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Some shoppers have also reported being charged multiple times if they accidentally press the app button more than once before entering. Aldi's terms and conditions confirm that the deposit is required to verify payment cards and ensure smooth transactions, but customers are given little warning how much is being pre-authorised before payment is taken.
The Greenwich store, which opened in January 2022, is Aldi's only checkout-free location. It uses AI-powered cameras to track what customers pick up, automatically billing them as they leave without the need for scanning or till.s. Initially, customers had to download the Aldi Shop & Go app and register a payment card, but in 2023, Aldi introduced a contactless entry option.
