A line of people wrapped around the Aldi on North Main Street bright and early Thursday morning for the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony.

The new Suffolk location is part of Aldi’s $3.4 billion investment to open 2,500 additional stores in the U.S. by 2022.

The German-based company opened its doors right after Farm Fresh closed, and it has given those in downtown Suffolk an additional option for their grocery shopping.

“Before, we used to go to Food Lion, and it was way overpriced,” said Robert Wood. “I really do love the prices.”

Aldi was ready for a crowd with Dunkin’ Donuts coffee and doughnuts, and all the shopping carts already had a quarter for the guests. Aldi, a discount chain, helps save money by requiring shoppers to rent carts for a quarter. Those quarters are returned when they bring the cart back to the corral at the front of the store.

For those living in the Meridian Obici Apartments, the new grocery store is just a few steps away from the complex.

“I live in the apartments, and it’s walking distance,” said Quinton Riddick. “I love the fact that it’s new, so it’s extremely clean. The people are so nice, and customer service is important to me.”

The line continued to grow, because the first 100 customers received gift cards of varying amounts as part of their popular Golden Ticket giveaway. There was also an opportunity to enter a raffle and win a year of free produce.

Suffolk’s Economic Development Authority and several members of City Council were in attendance for the event.

Councilman Donald Goldberg, who represents the borough, was in attendance as well.

“I love it. I’ve known Aldi from my many trips to Germany,” Goldberg said. “Glad to be here and have a new type of store in downtown for people to shop and save money.”

Vice Mayor Leroy Bennett also attended to give his own remarks.

“This is a great day for Suffolk,” Bennett said. “We know the people are excited now that we have our own Aldi. It’s great, especially with Farm Fresh closing.”

The new manager of the store, Sarah Jackson, has lived in Suffolk for the last year and was happy to be able to run her own store.

Jackson was born and raised in Germany, so she’s familiar with Aldi. Managing the store also gives her an opportunity to reconnect with the German community.

The store is located at 1920 N. Main St., and it is open every day from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.