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Read the press release here.

Aldi Says It Will Spend Millions to Remodel Grocery Stores

By  Alisa Hauser and Patty Wetli | February 9, 2017 12:12pm | Updated on February 9, 2017 1:43pm

 Aldi did not specify which stores would be remodeled.
Aldi did not specify which stores would be remodeled.
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DNAinfo/Patty Wetli

CHICAGO - Aldi, which has more than a dozen locations in the city, says it will spend $1.6 billion to remodel and expand its grocery stores in the U.S. over the next three years.

The company did not specify which stores will be remodeled but said it is targeting 1,300 of its 1,600 locations in the U.S.

The company described a "modern design" with open ceilings, natural lighting and environmentally friendly building materials.

"The new Aldi store look delivers on its customers' desire for a modern and convenient shopping experience with a focus on fresh items, including more robust produce, dairy and bakery sections," the company said in a press release.

Jason Hart, CEO of Aldi, said the remodeled stores will have more space for produce, meat and bakery items and the company aims to complete the rehab by 2020.

 Aldi at 1767 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Aldi at 1767 N. Milwaukee Ave. in Wicker Park/Bucktown
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The stores will grow to an average of 12,000 square feet from their current 10,000 square feet, according to Supermarket News. An analyst told the trade publication that Aldi is trying to get customers to visit more often.

The company has also said it will open 650 new stores across the United States by the end of 2018. A recent Wall Street Journal story described how the company, known for its low-frills approach, is increasingly eyeing middle- and upper-class areas, primarily in the suburbs.

A store at 2431 W. Montrose in North Center closed last March, with company officials saying at the time that the 12,000-square-foot store would be replaced with a 15,000-square-foot version featuring wider aisles, updated decor, a green roof with solar panels and permeable pavers in the parking lot to help absorb stormwater.

A popular Wicker Park Aldi at 1767 N. Milwaukee Ave. next to the 606's elevated Bloomingdale Trail also closed last March. When it reopens this summer, the discount supermarket chain will be on the first floor of a 5½-story, 95-unit apartment building, along with Yolk restaurant.

At the time of the closing last year, a spokeswoman said the Aldi would be undergoing "a complete teardown and rebuild."

Founded in Germany in 1946, Aldi operates more than 9,000 stores worldwide. In 1966, the company split into two separate entities: Aldi Nord, which owns Trader Joe's, and Aldi Sud, which runs the Aldi supermarkets.

Aldi stores in the city of Chicago:

3320 W. Belmont Ave.

4500 N. Broadway

1739 W. Cermak Rd.

1836 N. Clybourn Ave.

2600 N. Clybourn Ave.

4627 W. Diversey Ave

800 N. Kedzie Ave.

3030 S. Kedzie Ave.

4934 S. Kedzie Ave.

1440 N. Kostner Ave.

3835 W. Madison St.

1767 N. Milwaukee Ave.

2431 W. Montrose Ave.

4501 S. Pulaski Rd.

4030 W. Wrightwood Ave.

1508 W. 47th St.