The Captain Stirling Shopping Centre in Nedlands has been bought by ALDI.

German discount supermarket chain ALDI has bought the Captain Stirling shopping centre on Stirling Highway in Nedlands for an undisclosed sum.

This acquisition is part of ALDI's long term plan to establish 70 or more stores in WA to compete with retail giants Woolworths and Coles.

ALDI WA's managing director Viktor Jakupec said the acquisition of the Nedlands site was an exciting step forward for ALDI in WA.

The first 20 stores planned for WA were expected to open between June and December next year as part of a $450 million investment by the company in the state over the next few years.

Each WA store will support 15-20 employees, providing rewarding career opportunities for local residents.

The new stores would also offer more opportunities for local suppliers, Aldi said.

The 1613sqm centre is currently anchored by a 721sqm IGA supermarket and is also home to 11 specialty stores including a pharmacy, travel agency, newsagency and Bakers Delight.

The centre was placed on the market earlier this year.