Period Poverty

Breaking the cycle of Period Poverty

For the past year, ALDI has been on a mission to tackle period poverty head-on, as we believe that access to period products is a basic right, not a privilege. That’s why, since March 2025, we’ve been providing free pads and tampons in our store and office toilets. Customers and colleagues are able to take what they need, when they need it—no questions asked.  

Why Access to Period Products Matters

Period poverty is a reality for far too many. Research shows that 41% of Brits struggle to afford period products, with 30% forced to choose between buying them or other essential items like food or clothing. Without access to these products, some rely on substitutes like toilet paper, kitchen roll or old clothing, leaving them feeling embarrassed, stressed and excluded from everyday activities such as work, school and social events.

By taking this step, we hope to support those who menstruate while encouraging others to join the effort to end period poverty for good.

Breaking the Stigma: Why We’re Making a Change

2 in 5

people who menstruate can't afford period products

0 UK laws

guaranteeing free period products for everyone

£120 a year

The average person spends £120 a year on period products (4,800 over 40 years) and that's just for the basics, not including pain relief or clothing.

Proudly Supporting Menstrual Equity Charities

We’re proud to have partnered with menstrual equity charities Bloody Good Period and Freedom4Girls, donating one million period products to support the fight against period poverty.

You can also play a part. To find out more and to donate to Freedom4Girls, click the link below.

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