ALDI Ventures into Travel with New Online Holiday Portal

Popular supermarket chain ALDI has taken an unexpected turn by entering the travel industry with the launch of ALDI Holidays. Starting today, Australian shoppers have the opportunity to book exclusive holiday packages through ALDI’s new online portal, a development that marks a first in the supermarket sector.

The retail giant is collaborating with Ignite Travel Group, a company under Flight Centre’s umbrella, to offer a variety of holiday deals that maintain ALDI’s focus on value. The packages feature exclusive offers on cruises, tours, and customizable travel experiences. According to ALDI Australia Group Director Rodney Balech, this move aims to make holiday planning a more enjoyable experience with exceptional value.

“We are excited to be taking off in a new direction to make planning and booking a holiday a more enjoyable experience for Australians and in our signature, Good Different way with ALDI Holidays,” Balech said. “This service, in partnership with Ignite Travel, will unlock incredible value and help all types of travellers create truly unforgettable experiences.”

ALDI Holidays offers packages starting at $449 per person, with destinations including Surfers Paradise, Fiji, Thailand, Hawaii, South Africa, Europe, and numerous cruise options around the Pacific Islands and Japan. The offerings align with ALDI’s tradition of limiting deals, similar to their bi-weekly ‘Special Buys’ concept.

Ryan Thomas, CEO of Ignite Travel Group, highlighted the timeliness of this partnership. “We are excited to partner with ALDI to bring a range of leisure and luxury travel options to more Australians, launching at a great time when travel continues to boom,” he stated. Thomas also noted the growing interest in domestic and nearby international travel, including record numbers for cruises and small group tours.

The partnership will see ALDI customers benefiting from specially curated holiday packages that include flights, local experiences, and more, all available for booking through ALDI’s dedicated online sales center or customer service for cruise options.

ATIA Acting CEO Ingrid Fraser endorsed the initiative, describing it as innovative. “This partnership between ALDI Travel and Ignite Travel Pty Ltd, an ATAS accredited business, is a great example of the kind of innovation we constantly see from ATIA members as they continue to find new ways to meet Australians’ appetite for travel,” Fraser remarked.