Aldi becomes a member of BRC

The firm's managing director for UK and Ireland Paul Foley said that the move was made so that the company can forge greater links with Brussels, Edinburgh and Westminster.

He suggested that the knowledge these politicians have are in "policy areas" that could have an impact on the way the business operates.

Director general at the BRC Stephen Robertson added that Aldi is an important part of the UK grocery market.

"Aldi's growing popularity will provide useful input in the BRC’s dialogue with decision makers, particularly in our key lobbying areas such as food and the environment.

"With increased membership, our call to remove unnecessary regulations, which ultimately feed into higher prices for customers, becomes stronger," he commented.