Aldi Nord expands its range of services and now allows customers to withdraw cash at 2,200 branches in Germany with a minimum purchase of just one euro. The new service permits withdrawals in ten-euro increments up to a maximum amount of 200 euros and accepts all Maestro and V-Pay debit cards, as well as Master and Visa credit cards. "This service represents a real convenience, especially in regions where bank branches and ATMs are scarce," the company from Essen announced.

This expansion follows successful tests in three selected regions and represents a significant reduction in minimum purchase values compared to other supermarkets, which often allow cash withdrawals starting from five or ten euros. While other retailers already offer this feature, Aldi Nord remains competitive with a minimum value of one euro, specifically addressing the needs of customers in less well-served areas.

Despite the increasing digitalization in payment transactions, a recent analysis by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) shows that cash is still in high demand in Germany. In 2023, Germans paid electronically an average of 304 times per capita, which places them in the lower third in a European comparison. Countries like Norway, Luxembourg, and Ireland record significantly higher averages, while Germany ranks only about in the middle by comparison.

This preference for cash is also reflected in the Bundesbank's survey results: In 2008, the cash rate for payments was still at 83 percent, while it has recently dropped to 51 percent. Nevertheless, physical payment transactions remain a central component of German consumer behavior, which is further supported by the introduction of Aldi Nord.

The persistent use of cash contrasts with global trends, which according to BCG, indicate a further increase in the use of electronic and digital payment methods. However, the consulting firm expects a decline in profitability for credit card companies, payment service providers, and banks, as global payment revenues were estimated at $1.8 trillion last year.

Aldi Nord responds with the new cash service to the ongoing consumer demand for flexible and simple payment options. While the global market for digital payments continues to grow, Germany is a market that remains heavily reliant on traditional payment methods despite these developments.