Lidl has announced a major expansion of its UK operations with a combined investment of £435million into warehouse development projects in London and Leeds. The move is set to generate more than 500 new jobs across both locations.
The German-owned discount supermarket chain recently completed a significant redevelopment at its Belvedere warehouse in southeast London.
The £285million project involved the construction of a second facility on the site, tripling its storage capacity. Once fully operational, the expanded Belvedere centre is expected to support up to 120 Lidl stores across the region and create 120 new roles.
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At the same time, construction has now begun on a brand-new warehouse in Leeds, representing a further £150 million investment by the retailer. This facility will be one of the largest in the company’s UK network and is projected to generate around 400 additional jobs upon completion.
Combined, the two projects signal Lidl’s continued growth in the UK and its confidence in the future of the British grocery market. With over 980 stores and 14 distribution centres across England, Scotland and Wales, Lidl is currently the sixth-largest supermarket chain in the country. According to data from Kantar, it is rapidly gaining ground on rival Morrisons in terms of market share.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves welcomed Lidl’s announcement, calling it a clear sign of confidence in the UK economy. “This investment is a strong vote of confidence in the UK economy, and Lidl’s commitment to new warehouse facilities in London and Leeds will unlock hundreds of new jobs, strengthen supply chains, and ensure families can access affordable, quality food,” she said.
Richard Taylor, chief real estate officer for Lidl in Great Britain, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the company’s broader economic contribution. “We are proud to play our role in driving economic growth and investing in long-term infrastructure that will benefit customers and communities across the country,” he said.
The investment announcement comes at a time of broader discussion around the cost pressures faced by retailers. Lidl was among several major UK supermarket chains that recently co-signed a letter to the Chancellor, cautioning against potential tax increases in the upcoming autumn budget.
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A combined investment of £435 million into warehouse development projects in London and Leeds is set to generate more than 500 new jobs across both locations.
|PA
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The letter, coordinated by the British Retail Consortium, warned that further fiscal burdens could undermine the government's goals to improve living standards.
In response, the Treasury said it remained committed to supporting business and described itself as a "pro-business Government".
The jobs created through these projects will range across warehousing, logistics, and administrative roles, offering new opportunities in both London and Yorkshire.
Reeves praised the decision by Lidl to open more roles
| PA