Lidl has published its latest list of potential locations for new stores – with Bracknell identified as one of its targets.
In its 30th year, it has unveiled its wish list of locations for potential new stores in the South, from Bracknell to Guildford and Portsmouth to Southampton.
It comes as the discounter announces plans to open hundreds of new stores across the country, creating thousands of new jobs.
The update follows a year of significant investment in its infrastructure to further strengthen operations, during which Lidl opened its largest global warehouse in Luton.
It has also been optimising and enhancing its existing estate, and introduced enhancements that include the rollout of electronic shelf labels, all of which in turn have supported Lidl’s record growth, with market share now standing at 8%.
Richard Taylor, Lidl GB chief development officer, said: “Having fortified our infrastructure with significant investments, 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.
“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% 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 £1.5 million site purchase.
The discounter 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.
