Aldi hits closer to home
Richard Goyder can see a positive in Coles rival Aldi gaining a foothold in his home turf of Perth's western suburbs.
"It'll give me an opportunity to drop in and have a look at the store on the way home," the Wesfarmers managing director and Mosman Park resident said.
Aldi announced last week it had bought the Captain Stirling shopping centre in Nedlands. The move is part of a $450 million push into WA, which will see stores start to open across the metropolitan area from next year.
Mr Goyder said the Nedlands deal demonstrated the German multinational had no shortage of funds.
He said it was not unusual for Aldi to set up in affluent areas, giving the example of an outlet in Sydney's upmarket shopping hub Bondi Junction.
"Aldi's a serious player, we've been competing with them for years on the east coast," Mr Goyder said. "They're everywhere.
"They appeal to more than one demographic. They're a well-run outfit.
"Always, new entrants will have an impact and they'll have an impact (in WA). We think we're well positioned to compete with any competitor that comes along."
Peter Williams
