3 Aldi Secrets That Save Illinois Shoppers Serious Money

If you shop at Aldi in Illinois, especially here in Rockford, you already know the prices can feel almost suspiciously low. But those savings don't happen by accident.

Aldi keeps things lean and efficient with some clever behind-the-scenes strategies that help shoppers like us keep more money in our wallets (and maybe splurge on that random aisle with the hot tubs and camping gear).

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Here are three Aldi secrets that make your grocery bill lower, without you even realizing it.

1. The Car Quarter IS Doing More Than You Think

Yes, the 25¢ cart deposit system seems weird the first time you encounter it. But it's actually genius. That tiny deposit means Aldi Stores don't need to pay someone to wrangle carts all day. You return your cart because you want your quarter back. It's simple and effective.

READ MORE: 3 Secret Getaways in Illinois Everyone Should Know About

2. No Music = No Fees (And More Focused Shopping)

Ever notice how quiet it is inside an Aldi? According to Tasting Table, that's intentional. Playing music in stores requires paying licensing fees, and Aldi skips that expense to help keep prices down. Plus, the silence kind of helps you focus, unless you're like me and start humming and air-drumming your own soundtrack in the produce aisle.

READ MORE: The Secret Behind Costco's Free Samples

3. Cashiers Sit—So They Can Ring You Up Like Lightning

At Aldi, cashiers sit while scanning your groceries because it makes them faster. The company tested it, and it turns out that seated employees move through items quicker, as one Aldi cashier told Mental Floss. Faster lines mean fewer employees needed per shift, more efficiency, and more savings. And judging by how quickly the Rockford Aldi crew moves, they could win the checkout Olympics.