A supermarket chain has provided nearly 20,000 meals to assist vulnerable households across Oxfordshire during the recent summer break from school.
Aldi outlets in the county directed 19,000 meals to charitable organisations, food banks, and community groups during the six-week holiday period when many children would normally receive free school meals at educational settings.
The contribution formed part of a broader increase in Aldi’s national redistribution figures, which grew from 8.8 million to 10.9 million meals in 2026, representing a rise of 24 percent.
Luke Emery, national sustainability director at Aldi UK, indicated that the company views food waste prevention as a priority, noting that surplus products can be redirected to support community-based assistance programmes.
The retailer has maintained a partnership with the redistribution platform Neighbourly since 2019, facilitating the transfer of excess stock from stores to community organisations throughout the United Kingdom.
Steve Butterworth, chief executive of Neighbourly, explained that demand on partner charities typically remains steady during the summer months, as families contend with increased expenditure on meals while children lack access to the free school meal provision available during term time.
Butterworth stated that the school holiday period often intensifies pressure on households, as food expenses typically rise and children who depend on free meals during term may find themselves without equivalent support once classes conclude.
According to Butterworth, consistent supplies of surplus food enable charitable organisations to maintain their operations effectively, ensuring shelves remain stocked and communities receive appropriate assistance tailored to local requirements.
Customers shopping at Aldi branches throughout Oxfordshire can participate by depositing food and essential items at dedicated collection points situated within participating stores.