The only Aldis I have encountered in Dallas need a quarter to unlock a shopping cart. The produce and meat selections look like the end of a long day at the Braums ‘grocery section’. Not a good place to shop.
Every Aldi requires a quarter for a shopping cart. That way, they don’t hire baggers/sackers to bag your groceries (which you have to do yourself with bags you either purchase or bring yourself), saving money.
I’d say you went on the wrong day if the produce and/or meat selection was poor. I’ve gotten good steaks there, and the produce we eat (apples, grapes, bananas, cantaloupe, carrots, potatoes, etc.) are always good.