Lidl has revealed plans to open hundreds of new stores across the UK as it celebrates its 30th year.
The supermarket giant has spent 2023 and early 2024 strengthening its operations, including opening its largest warehouse in the world in Luton.
It has also extended its Welsh distribution centre in Bridgend.
The company has also made significant progress in its Belvedere warehouse expansion, which will result in its size and capacity being doubled once the project is complete.
It also introduced enhancements to its store estate, including the rollout of electronic shelf labels, all of which in turn have supported Lidl’s record growth, with market share now standing at eight percent .
The discounter has consistently been the fastest-growing supermarket for the past seven months.
It is doubling down on its commitment to making good food accessible to everyone.
Throughout 2024, Lidl will open new stores across the country.
These will be in:
- Bristol
- Birmingham
- Berwick
- Wandsworth
- Hoxton
- Canning Town
It is also planning stores in Liverpool, Leeds, Edinburgh and more in London.
Smaller towns like Wadebridge and Didcot could also see new stores open.
Richard Taylor, Lidl GB Chief Development Officer
“Having fortified our infrastructure with significant investments like Luton, which is the largest warehouse in the Lidl world, we’re proud to have achieved record market share this month. We have also been the fastest growing bricks and mortar supermarket for the past seven months in a row. With an exceptional store network and our laser focus on operational excellence, we’re welcoming more customers through our doors than ever before, which positions us perfectly for continued expansion.
“As we celebrate our 30th year, our commitment to ensuring that all households across the country have access to high quality produce at affordable prices is stronger than ever. We’re planning to open hundreds of new Lidl stores but ultimately see no ceiling on our ambition or growth potential. This is why we’re continuing to invest in new locations whilst exploring innovative routes to expansion. As we look ahead, we’re excited to welcome even more new shoppers to our existing stores, as well as those we’re planning to open across the country in the coming months and years.”
Should a site be successfully identified, the discounter will pay a finders’ fee of either 1.5 percent of the total freehold purchase price, or 10% of the first year’s rent for leaseholds, which would equate to £22,500 for a completed £1.5m site purchase.
Lidl is specifically looking for sites in prominent locations with easy access and strong pedestrian or traffic flow, with 1.5+ acres for a standalone store and up to four acres for mixed-use schemes.
Sites should allow for unit sizes between 18,000 and 26,500 sq ft and over 100 dedicated car parking spaces, and Lidl’s flexible approach means it will consider freehold, leasehold or long leasehold opportunities.
