THE APD PULSE NETWORK
March Edition
March 24th, 2026
March reflects the continued acceleration of development activity, where keeping projects moving requires more than pace. It demands alignment, foresight, and the ability to navigate complexity without losing momentum.
In this issue, we explore ALDI and their expansion across the Southeast and what it takes to execute high-volume store conversions across multiple states with cohesion & consistency. We also highlight Principal Adam Noga, whose leadership brings clarity to complex programs and helps teams deliver at scale.
You will hear directly from our Civil Engineering team on the questions clients are asking most, from early site evaluation to managing unforeseen challenges and maintaining progress through the approval process.
Across every engagement, we stay focused on what matters most to our clients: minimizing risk, maintaining momentum, and navigating each phase of development with fewer obstacles along the way.
On the Boards
The Strategic Entry of ALDI into the Southeast
90 Store Conversions. Five States. One Coordinated Rollout.
The expansion of ALDI into the Southeast is not being driven by ground up development, it is being executed through one of the most aggressive conversion strategies in the grocery sector.
Since 2024, APD has supported 90 ALDI SEG locations across Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, with the majority of these projects delivered as refits of existing stores.
Programs of this scale require more than design. They demand speed, coordination, and the ability to operate
across multiple jurisdictions while maintaining consistency from site to site.
APD rapidly mobilized its integrated architecture and engineering teams to support this rollout, enabling disciplines to move in parallel and maintain momentum across a high volume of active projects.
What makes these programs successful, however, is not just scale. It is how teams adapt existing structures, navigate local requirements, and deliver consistent results across every location.
Ft. Walton beach, Florida – Before
Ft. Walton beach, Florida – After
Team Spotlight
Adam Noga, AIA, NCARB, LEED Green Associate
Principal of ArchitectureAdam Noga joined APD in 2013, bringing a strong foundation in building design and a natural ability to unite others around a common objective. Inspired early on by his brother’s path in architecture, he built a career that blends technical depth with a highly collaborative approach. That balance continues to define how he leads today.
Over the past 12+ years, Adam has been instrumental in advancing complex prototype programs, most notably through his work with ALDI. What is often perceived as a standardized process is, in reality, highly strategic. Each prototype reflects years of iteration, coordination, and real-world application. Adam brings a clear understanding of how to translate those systems into site-specific solutions, helping clients navigate jurisdictional requirements, manage risk, and keep development moving.
His leadership is grounded in one straightforward principle: be a good person. It is a standard he sets for his team and reinforces across every interaction, both internally and externally. By
prioritizing accountability, clear communication, and strong working relationships, Adam creates the alignment needed to deliver consistently across multiple projects and markets.
Outside of work, Adam enjoys time with his family, where his two kids bring energy and perspective to his day-to-day. A passionate sports fan, he is also drawn to the fast-paced, relationship-driven world of sports management.
After more than a decade with APD, Adam continues to play a key role in helping clients execute at scale, bringing clarity to complex programs and supporting long-term, sustainable growth.
Top 5 Questions Our Civil Engineers Hear Most, and Why They Matter
Every project starts with questions. From early planning to approvals and construction, clients often want to understand how civil engineering decisions affect timelines, costs, and potential challenges. Here are five questions our team hears most.
1. How does your Rochester-based team support projects in other regions while keeping the approval process efficient?
We use tools like Google Earth, Pictometry, and local survey data to design remotely, and many approvals can be handled virtually. When needed, we travel or coordinate with a local consultant. Having our civil and building teams together also gives clients one point of contact for the entire project.
2. What types of unexpected challenges have you encountered on past projects?
Every project comes with unique challenges. We’ve worked on sites without public water or sewer that required on-site systems, navigated projects involving endangered species, and handled complex permitting for wetlands and environmental conditions. We’ve also addressed issues like soil contamination, large retaining walls, sound barriers, aquifer protection requirements, and even road abandonments and public opposition.
3. Is a due diligence report truly necessary, and what value does it provide for a project?
In most cases, yes. Due diligence helps uncover issues early, before a property is purchased or leased. Identifying risks like floodplains, environmental concerns, or utility limitations upfront can prevent delays and unexpected costs later.
Upcoming Events
April 19th – 22nd
Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort, Orlando, Florida
Adam Noga AIA, NCARB
Principal of Architecture
Brian Grinnell AIA, NCARB
Principal of Architecture
Joel Skogen PE
Associate Principal of Mechanical Engineering
BuildPoint 2026 is Less Than a Month Away
With less than a month until BuildPoint, our team will be onsite connecting with developers, franchise partners, and brand leaders.
If you will be attending and would like to discuss upcoming projects, prototype development, or expansion plans, we would be glad to connect ahead of the event.
