ALDI’s VP Talks Pumpkin Spice and Seasonal Favorites

ALDI’s VP Discusses Popular Pumpkin Spice and Seasonal Offerings

As fall sets in, consumers are increasingly drawn to seasonal flavors, and ALDI is meeting that demand with a wide variety of autumn-centric products. Scott Patton, Vice President of National Buying at ALDI, recently shared insights on the retailer’s seasonal strategy, including its emphasis on pumpkin spice and other popular fall flavors.

Seasonal Demand and Pumpkin Spice Popularity

Courtesy of Aldi

According to Patton, ALDI has observed a significant growth in the popularity of fall flavors, especially pumpkin and pumpkin spice, between 2022 and 2023. “Sales of our fall flavor ALDI Finds grew by double digits, driven largely by pumpkin and pumpkin spice products, which continue to be two of our top performers,” he told Progressive Grocer in an exclusive interview. Due to the strong demand, ALDI increased its top pumpkin and pumpkin spice offerings by up to 50%, ensuring these items are available throughout the season.

Innovative Seasonal Offerings Across Categories

At ALDI, seasonal flavors go beyond bakery and beverage items. With 90% of its stores carrying private label products, the retailer has greater flexibility in introducing creative seasonal innovations. This approach allows ALDI to bring unique flavors to shelves, such as Peanut Delight Pumpkin Spice Peanut Butter and Priano Pumpkin Sage Ravioli. Another standout is Barissimo Nondairy Pumpkin Spice Creamer, which is expected to see a 25% increase in demand year-over-year.

Courtesy of Aldi

While pumpkin is a staple of fall, ALDI is also incorporating other classic autumn flavors. Specially Selected Apple Berry Blossoms and Belmont Caramel Apple Whipped Cheesecake are new entries in the ALDI Finds aisle, offering shoppers exciting new ways to enjoy traditional fall flavors.

Transitioning to Winter Flavors

As autumn progresses, ALDI is also preparing for the winter season, already rolling out winter products such as Happy Farms Salted Caramel Cream Cheese and Specially Selected Caramel Belgian Mousse Desserts. According to Patton, caramel is a popular flavor as colder weather approaches, making it a key part of the retailer’s seasonal strategy.

The Seasonal Product Development Process

Courtesy of Aldi

Creating seasonal-flavored products takes months of preparation. Patton emphasized that ALDI’s buying team collaborates closely with suppliers and its in-house trend team to understand global marketplace trends. This collaboration allows ALDI to quickly turn seasonal flavor concepts into products. Each product goes through rigorous testing, often being sampled internally several times before it reaches shelves. Patton mentioned that product development for 2025’s seasonal offerings is already well underway, with planning starting up to nine months in advance.

The Joy of Flavor Innovation

For Patton, working on seasonal flavors is one of the most enjoyable aspects of his job. “It’s been rewarding to see the progress we’ve made in this space and how ALDI can put an innovative spin on any product, from baked goods to beverages,” he said. He highlighted State of Brewing Pumpkin Ale as an example of ALDI’s ability to offer seasonal varieties across different product categories.

Courtesy of Aldi

ALDI’s Success and Sustainability Efforts

With over 2,300 stores in 38 states, ALDI serves millions of customers each month and has earned recognition in the industry. It is ranked No. 28 on The PG 100, Progressive Grocer’s list of top food and consumables retailers in North America. ALDI was also named Retailer of the Year for 2023 and one of the 10 Most Sustainable Grocers in 2024.