Aldi achieves Welsh Language certification

Aldi has achieved its Welsh language certification, in a bid to boost its commitment to rolling out the Welsh language in all of its stores across Wales.

The discounter is the fourth biggest grocer in Wales and has now become the 100^th organisation to be awarded Cynnig Cymraeg certification from the Welsh Language Commissioner.

Aldi regional managing director Dan Oakenfull said: “It is important to Aldi to be a part of the local community and to be an inclusive retailer for all customers across the UK. We are passionate about the communities in which we operate and we want to champion things that matter most to our customers.”

“This includes looking for ways to incorporate the Welsh language in these stores to uphold the heritage of communities as well as support the values that both our colleagues and customers hold.”

Subscribe to Grocery Gazette for free

Sign up here to get the latest grocery and food news each morning

The new certification comes amid a series of investments made by Aldi to bolster the inclusion of the Welsh language in its stores across the country.

Initiatives include bilingual self-checkout announcements, displays and signage, while Welsh-speaking store colleagues have the option of Iaith Gwaith badges.

Welsh language commissioner Efa Gruffudd Jones said: “We are very excited to have Aldi on board and actively supporting our efforts to promote and facilitate the use of the Welsh language in everyday life.

“The Cynnig Cymraeg scheme allows businesses to raise awareness of their Welsh language services that will in turn lead to an increase in the use of Welsh in our day-to-day lives.

“In congratulating Aldi on its success, I would like to engage other similar organisations to work with us to develop and improve their Welsh language offer.”