Our everlasting love affair with German discounters

We might have scoffed when they first appeared in 1999, but these days, practically everyone sees the charm of Lidl and Aldi

German supermarkets like Lidl have become a part of our daily lives Pic: RollingNews.ie

Try a little experiment in your household today.Mention aloud that you are off to ***** (insert name of Irish or British supermarket chain of your choice) to pick up some bits. Ask who wants to come. Note the tumbleweed.

Next, announce you are off to Lidl or Aldi for a bit of a shop. Ask if anyone’s interested. Chances are you’ll get a taker.

Because 17 years after the first Aldi outlet opened ...