But the grocery market has not attracted big names to the same extent, although Costco is making headway with its Auckland superstore and confirmed it was looking to open by the middle of next year. “The brand people would love to see is definitely Aldi,” said First Retail Group managing director Chris Wilkinson, who described it as a potential disruptor. Matt Cardy/Getty Images Aldi is a massive global player, and can use that to keep prices low. The German low-price supermarket opened its first Australian store in 2001, and has been registered with the New Zealand companies office since 2000. Most of its products are home brand, said Wilkinson. It also brings in “very odd types of categories”, for example toasters or beach toys, keeping shoppers loyal and interested.