Aldi is inviting local charities, community groups and food banks to register now to receive surplus food donations this Christmas.

The move forms part of the retailer’s pledge to donate 10 million meals this year to families facing hunger as it works with the Neighbourly. community engagement platform that links businesses to food banks and charities.

With all Aldi stores set to close on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and News Year’s Day, the retailer said it wants to ensure that any products approaching the end of their shelf life reach families who might otherwise miss out this Christmas.

Aldi will be prioritising existing charity partnerships for the festive collections, but additional organisations are being invited to apply to be paired with a local Aldi store to collect fresh and chilled food products if there is availability.