Eager shoppers could be seen queuing outside Aldi this morning as the company opened their latest store in the region.
From 7am, people waited outside the store, in North Shields, in the hope of being one of the first to step through its doors.
When plans for the development were announced, resident who called it "the best news I've heard in years", adding that it will benefit families on low wages.
And today staff were ready to welcome customers into the store situated on the former Tynemouth Court nursing home which was demolished in 2017.
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After almost a year of construction at the Hawkeys Lane site, the firm confirmed the doors will open on at 8am on June 17.
The new Aldi will have 30 staff, including eight new recruits, as well as customer favourites such as the special buys.
But as well as providing North Shields with a new food store, Aldi is looking to make a difference within the local community.
The store is calling on local charities and food banks in North Shields to register with Neighbourly, a community engagement platform that links businesses to charitable organisations in the local community.
It means local charities that register will be able to collect surplus food and perishable products, such as fruit, vegetables and baked goods, up to five days a week.
And it will contribute towards reducing food waste in the UK, whilst also ensuring families who may be struggling financially have access to food.
Any charities in the area that would like to partner up with the new Aldi store should email aldi@neighbourly.com.
