Facade of an Aldi store with a circle highlighting the Trader Joe's entrance and a surprised emoji in the foreground
CONSUMER AFFAIRS

Aldi drops a bomb in the U.S. and leaves Trader Joe's reeling

The supermarket chain has sought to win over its customers with an Asian product that leaves no one indifferent

Aldi supermarket has launched a true gastronomic sensation in the United States that has left many Trader Joe's fans stunned. Especially for those who enjoy trying new things. Those who are passionate about tasting a piece of Asia right in America. 

This is the popular Korean kimbap, which is returning to Aldi's freezers with two new flavors that promise to compete directly with its competitor's product. Kimbap, a kind of Korean sushi, has gained popularity in recent years thanks to its savory taste, convenience, and attractive presentation. Trader Joe's was a pioneer in making it trendy among regular shoppers, but recently their version has been almost impossible to find.

Facade of a Trader Joe's store with cars parked in front and two palm trees next to the entrance
Trader Joe's is a leading chain in the country | Trader Joe's

Two types of flavors that win over Aldi customers

This has led to frustration among the most loyal consumers. Taking advantage of this gap in the market, Aldi is relaunching its own line of kimbap under the Fusia Asian Inspirations brand and is doing so in a big way. Starting June 18, two completely new flavors will be available in the frozen section: Traditional and Tuna Mayo.

The Traditional kimbap includes a classic Korean combination of surimi, egg, carrot, spinach, and pickled radish wrapped in rice and nori seaweed. Meanwhile, the Tuna Mayo version offers a mix of tuna with mayonnaise and perilla leaf, an aromatic herb used in Asian cuisine. Both versions come pre-sliced into eight pieces, the perfect size for a quick and easy bite; you just need to heat them in the microwave for five minutes and they're ready to eat.

This isn't the first time Aldi has launched kimbap. Last year, they already surprised customers with flavors like Spicy Salmon and Bulgogi BBQ Beef. Likewise, at the beginning of this year, Spicy Tuna with Gochujang and Kimchi with Tofu varieties were seen in stores.

Facade of an ALDI store illuminated at dusk with trees in the background and an empty parking lot in the front
Aldi has won over its customers with its new release | Aldi

The reaction of shoppers

However, the current return is generating even more excitement. On social media like Reddit, fans have quickly reacted: "I'm coming back for more!" said one user. Another commented: "The portion is good for the price," while some speculate that the product seems "from the same manufacturer as Trader Joe's."

That said, if you want to get one, you'd better hurry. Just like with Trader Joe's star products, Aldi's new kimbap are flying off the shelves. With this move, Aldi not only fills a gap in the market, but also challenges Trader Joe's on one of their favorite grounds.

➡️ Consumer Affairs

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