UK | Lidl GB has announced it will open more than 50 new stores over the next 12 months as part of a GBP 600 million investment in its British infrastructure.
Marking the most ambitious standard store-opening programme in the UK supermarket sector this year, the expansion will create local opportunities and is expected to generate almost 2,000 new jobs across the country.
Upcoming store openings include key sites such as Abbots Langley near Watford, Warrington in Cheshire, and Thornbury in Gloucestershire, which are all set to open this summer.
This announcement also delivers good news for British suppliers, as more stores and more shelves create more opportunities. The discounter, which already sources two-thirds of its products from British suppliers, maintains long-term relationships with agricultural and food businesses across the country.
To support its growing estate, Lidl is also cementing its logistics infrastructure. The construction of its new warehouse in Leeds is progressing well, with operations due to begin next year.
Meanwhile, in London, Lidl is further investing in its Belvedere distribution site, submitting plans to slightly extend and connect the two warehouses.
"As we grow, we want to positively impact our British communities. We’re not just opening doors, we’re unlocking regional growth," said Ryan McDonnell, CEO at Lidl GB.
'Our expansion translates directly into high-quality jobs and gives British suppliers the certainty they need to invest in the future. Above all, it advances our social purpose of making affordable, healthy food accessible to everyone.”
Minister for Employment Rights & Consumer Protection, Kate Dearden, added that this kind of investment is exactly what she wanted to see from big employers, creating thousands of good jobs that pay fair wages and boost the standard of living in communities across the country.
"Lidl's expansion plans are a real vote of confidence in our plan to grow the economy, demonstrating that responsible business growth can bring significant benefits for both businesses and workers.”
To open more Lidl stores and logistics sites, Lidl GB is always looking for freehold, leasehold, or long-leasehold properties across Great Britain. Later this month, the supermarket will be hosting more than 150 property partners and agents at a showcase event in London to share its plans for future growth and further strengthen collaboration across the industry.
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