Supermarket Aldi appears to be thinking of those in need this Christmas - by offering local organisations the chance to collect their surplus seasonal stock and distribute it to those in need.
In a statement the firm said that on December 24, any leftovers will be free to good causes and those in need from 4pm, when it shuts up shop.
Aldi UK circulated a statement on social media urging charities and organisations to contact its head office to arrange collections from any one of its circa 520 local branches, including the one on Beck Road, Birkby .
Aldi's notice says: "As our stores will shut at 4pm on Christmas Eve until the 27th of December, we will have a variety of good quality surplus food products that we wish to redistribute in support of less fortunate individuals and to prevent food going to waste.
"We are unfortunately unable to deliver products on locally, so it would be essential that your organisation is able to collect. We will expect the levels of food available to vary, however estimations of around 20-30 crates will be expected from each store.
"If you wish to collect all products available, we would therefore recommend providing a large car or van, or being prepared to make multiple journeys.
"However you are more than welcome to take as much of the products offered as you can use - you are not required to take all products. We would also ask to ensure that you bring appropriate collection containers (bags, crates, boxes, etc.) as we will only have a limited number of cardboard boxes potentially available for use."
According to the Mirror Online , Aldi says it will have fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, bread and bakery products, as well as chilled goods, dairy items, desserts and ready meals free for anyone in need. All products will be in date by at least one day.
People have been praising Aldi for what is undoubtedly a very good thing. To begin with, due to the notice coming from various sources, people questioned its validity. But it has now been confirmed as a legitimate offer.
Emma Mistletofi said: "Aldi have confirmed this is true, which is wonderful. Now, how many other big supermarkets will do the same and if not, why not?"
Indeed, given how good an idea it is, many are calling on Britain's other supermarkets to do the same. We've asked Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda, Lidl, Morrisons, and Waitrose.
Aldi is asking organisations to collect from stores on Christmas Eve between 4:30pm and 5:30pm. Those who would like to collect food should no longer contact the person via the phone number on the card (too busy now), but instead email: csadmin@aldi.co.uk
If you're not involved with a food bank, individuals might instead try doing a reverse food bank , which is a great way of donating food to those in need over the festive period.
