Discount grocery store chain ALDI plans to build a store in Athens, a store official confirmed Thursday.

David Hassen, director of real estate for ALDI Inc., said the company closed Wednesday on a piece of property located west of the intersection of Clinton Street and U.S. 72 West. He said construction on the 17,651-square-foot store is set to begin next month, and the store could be open by late summer.

There are currently ALDI stores in Madison, Huntsville, Decatur and Florence. Hassen said the decision to open a store in Athens was based on population and proximity to U.S. 31, U.S. 72 and Interstate 65.

“We’ve been expanding in the North Alabama market, and we’ve done really well,” he said. “This will make it easier for customers (to shop with us).”

ALDI operates 1,300 U.S. stores in 32 states, according to information on the company’s website. Its stores sell a reported 1,300 grocery and household items under what it calls “exclusive brands,” which “must meet or exceed the national name brands on taste and quality.”

Hassen said ALDI’s aim is to save customers 30 to 50 percent on their grocery bill and help them stretch their food dollars.

In addition to the company’s promise of grocery savings, he said ALDI stores are smaller than larger supermarkets and are easier to navigate because they typically have just five aisles.

The Athens store will employ 15 to 20 employees, Hassen said, most of which would be full-time positions. He anticipated the hiring process to begin in early summer, with training to take place at stores in either Madison or Decatur.

“We’re excited about them being here,” Athens Mayor Ronnie Marks said. “I don’t know how much they will pull from our existing grocery stores, but I know (ALDI) is very popular. We wish them the best of luck.”