You may notice something different about Aldi on your next visit, with a new change being praised for ‘setting an example’ by shoppers.
Today, the retailer became the first major UK supermarket to roll out free period products across its in-store toilets – no code word or loyalty scheme needed.
By the end of May 2025, all locations will be be fitted with fixtures stocked with tampons and pads, allowing customers to simply take what they need when they need.
Aldi has also partnered with Bloody Good Period, pledging to donate over a million period products to support the charity’s fight against period poverty.
The move comes after new research from the supermarket which found 41% of people who menstruate admit they’re unable to afford to buy period products – 15% of whom say this is ‘very often’ or ‘always’ the case.
Additionally, third of Brits (30%) have had to decide whether to buy period products or choose other essential items for themselves and their family, with milk, fresh fruit and veg, bread, and household cleaning supplies among the items most likely to be sacrificed.
Clara Amfo, broadcaster and Bloody Good Period ambassador, commented: ”Aldi partnering with Bloody Good Period to raise awareness of period poverty and providing free products in their store toilets is a fantastic step in the right direction that will help millions across the country.’
‘We never want our customers to have to choose between buying the period products they need and feeding themselves or their families,’ added Julie Ashfield, chief commercial officer at Aldi UK.
‘For millions of people across the country, having access to period products is a basic and essential need, and we believe the provision of these in public toilets is as vital as toilet paper and soap.’
Customers welcomed the news, including @Rob140638 who wrote on X: ‘Well done to @AldiUK… Setting an example.’
‘Aldi winning again,’ said Sarah Maslen-Roberts on Facebook, while Natalie Rachel Chand wrote: ‘Yes Aldi UK, this is not a choice or a luxury, it’s a necessity! Thank you for being part of the solution.’
Another commenter, Emily Louise Denton, added: ‘This is top tier! I cannot believe in this day and age that girls and women should go without, struggle to afford or make do with something so natural that we don’t have a choice over. Well done.’
This follows a Morrisons scheme whereby shoppers can ask staff for a ‘package for Sandy’ to be discreetly given a pack with two pads inside.
Last year, the Scottish government also made history with a law making it compulsory for public places such as schools, colleges and universities, libraries and leisure centres to provide menstrual products free of charge.
Although it’s not legally required elsewhere in the UK, you can check for local hubs offering free period products near you via the My Period Live website – or, if you’re in a position to, find out where you can donate much-needed sanitary items to help people in your neighbourhood.
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