Aldi’s budget-friendly Almat Triple Chamber washing up tablets have earned a coveted spot on Which?’s prestigious list of 50 best products of 2024, securing the ninth position. This accolade underscores the remarkable value offered by the discount retailer, as the tablets impressed testers with their stain-removing prowess and affordability. Further enhancing their appeal, the tablets received a high sustainability score due to their minimal reliance on environmentally harmful ingredients. This recognition highlights Aldi’s commitment to providing consumers with both effective and eco-conscious cleaning solutions.
The Almat tablets share the spotlight with a diverse array of household and technological marvels, including the top-ranked Samsung Galaxy A15 5G phone. This £169 smartphone earned praise for its exceptional value and impressive longevity, further solidifying its position as a consumer favorite with a Which? Great Value endorsement. This distinction underscores the growing trend of affordable yet high-performing smartphones, empowering consumers to bypass expensive contracts and opt for more flexible SIM-only deals.
Taking the second spot is the considerably pricier Volkswagen ID.7 electric car, boasting a price tag of £51,550. This high-scoring vehicle impressed Which? testers with its superior suspension and spacious interior, demonstrating that top-tier performance can be found across the price spectrum. Other notable inclusions on the list include the versatile Daewoo SDA2618GE microwave, which doubles as an air fryer, and the innovative Framework Laptop 16, described as a “hi-tech Lego set.”
Further down the list, the Morrisons Nutmeg Home Fluted Toaster earns recognition for delivering perfectly toasted slices at an incredibly affordable price of just £19. The Philips STH3000 steam generator and the Samsung HW-Q930D soundbar also make appearances, highlighting the value and performance found in various product categories. The soundbar, in particular, is praised for enhancing the sound quality of slimmer televisions, offering crisp clarity and powerful rear speakers. These diverse selections demonstrate the breadth of quality products available to consumers at varying price points.
Which? magazine editor Harry Rose emphasizes that outstanding products aren’t limited to high-end devices or luxury vehicles. The inclusion of the budget-friendly Galaxy A15 5G phone reinforces this point, demonstrating that affordability and performance can coexist. Rose highlights the increasing accessibility of excellent smartphones, enabling more consumers to choose SIM-only deals and avoid costly contracts. This trend empowers consumers to make informed decisions based on value and individual needs.
Beyond the best product list, Aldi continues to adapt its services to meet consumer demands. The retailer is modifying its Too Good to Go “Surprise Bags” program, allowing reservations five days in advance during the festive period, extending the usual 24-hour window. This change follows other recent adjustments, such as the discontinuation of click-and-collect services in 174 stores after a four-year trial run. Despite launching the service during the pandemic’s peak, Aldi attributed the decision to the trial basis of the program. Simultaneously, Aldi is expanding its physical store network across the UK, investing £800 million with the goal of operating 1,500 stores nationwide. These strategic moves reflect Aldi’s ongoing efforts to optimize its operations and cater to evolving consumer preferences.
