BATAVIA, Ill. — Discount supermarket operator Aldi is introducing organic fresh produce, prepared food and other new items as it accelerates a growth plan that includes the addition of about 700 stores in the United States over the next four years.

Germany-based Aldi now has 1,800 U.S. stores in 35 states, many of which are being updated as part of the growth push.

Once the assortment is expanded, by early next year, 20% of the items in Aldi’s U.S. stores will be new offerings, according to the company.

The product expansion will make room for more of Aldi’s own brands, including Simply Nature, Never Any!, Specially Selected, liveGfree and Earth Grown.

“The continued success of our store expansion and remodel initiatives has given us the opportunity to carefully select and introduce new products that satisfy our customers’ increasing preferences for fresh items, including organic meats, salad bowls, sliced fruits and gourmet cheeses,” said Jason Hart, chief executive officer of Aldi U.S.