Aldi secrets out in ex-boss' book

The publication of a book by a former Aldi boss has lifted the lid on the secretive retailer.

Dieter Brandes worked at Aldi for 14 years as a regional general manager and member of its administrative board. He left in 1993 and since then has been a consultant, specialising in strategy development.

His book, The Bare Essentials: the Aldi way to Retail Success, published by Cyan/ Campus, focuses on the chain's culture and operations.

Aldi has stores in 12 countries and a turnover equivalent to US$44 billion (£24.55 billion).