Aldi has announced plans to donate around 2,500 meals to people in need across the UK this Christmas.

The discounter plans to provide free Christmas lunches between 16 and 18 December at 15 different community shops in the UK.

The move is part of Aldi’s partnership with the Community Shop, a charity that is part of the Company Shop Group.

As part of the charity initiative, community shop members will be able to sign up for free meals in stores.

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Luke Emery, national sustainability director at Aldi UK, said: “This is the third year we’ve supported the Community Shop’s Christmas Lunches, and it’s set to be the biggest yet. We’re increasing the number of meals and donating to more Community Shops, so even more people can enjoy a Christmas dinner on us.

“Our partnership with Company Shop Group has helped us make a real difference, not just by reducing waste from our Regional Distribution Centres, but by making food go further for the people who need it most.”

This is part of the retailer’s push towards supporting communities in need during the winter months, previously launching a UK Winter Fund in October.

Additionally, Aldi has partnered with Neighbourly to offer to start a UK Christmas donation scheme.