Lidl to open 50 new UK stores with 2,000 jobs created in £600million expansion

Joe Sledge
Thu, 09 Apr 2026 08:07:40 +0000

Lidl has announced a £600million investment into its UK operations as it prepares to open more than 50 new stores over the next year.

The supermarket said the expansion is expected to create close to 2,000 jobs in communities across Britain.

The move follows what Lidl described as a “record-breaking” festive trading period, with sales rising by 10 per cent over Christmas.

Lidl said nearly 51 million customers visited its stores in the run-up to the holiday season.

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The latest plans represent the chain's largest standard store opening programme in the UK supermarket sector this year.

Among the first locations set to open this summer are Abbots Langley near Watford, Warrington in Cheshire and Thornbury in Gloucestershire.

The chain currently operates more than 1,000 stores across Britain and employs over 35,000 people.

Later in April, Lidl will host more than 150 property partners and agents to outline its long-term expansion strategy.

The company said it is seeking new freehold, leasehold and long leasehold sites across Great Britain to support its growth.

Around two-thirds of Lidl’s products are sourced from British suppliers, with the retailer saying new stores will create further opportunities for domestic producers.

The supermarket also operates 13 distribution centres across the UK to support its network.

Ryan McDonnell, Lidl's CEO, said: "As we grow, we want to positively impact our British communities. We're not just opening doors, we're unlocking regional growth.

"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."

Trade Minister Kate Dearden added: "This kind of investment is exactly what we want 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 is also investing in its logistics network as part of its wider expansion plans.

Work on a new warehouse in Leeds is ongoing, with operations expected to begin in 2027.

In London, the retailer has submitted plans to extend and connect its distribution facilities in Belvedere.

The company said it remains committed to expanding its UK footprint despite challenges in the planning system.

Lidl added that continued investment reflects strong demand for discount supermarkets in Britain, with competition intensifying across the grocery sector.