Supermarket chain Lidl has launched an aggressive expansion plan, confirming it will open 19 new stores across the UK over the next eight weeks. This significant push includes a new branch for Birmingham, reinforcing the discounter's commitment to growth in the British retail market.
Major Investment and Job Creation
The expansion, confirmed last week, represents a substantial investment in the UK high street. Alongside the new stores, Lidl is ploughing £40 million into modernising more than 70 of its existing shops. The 19 new locations are set to create approximately 640 new jobs nationwide, providing a welcome boost to local employment.
Richard Taylor, Chief Real Estate Officer at Lidl GB, stated: “We’re starting the new year as we mean to go on, with a major investment that reinforces our commitment to delivering the best experience for customers and creating a positive impact for the communities we serve. With this push, we’re set on winning more shoppers across the nation and claiming an even bigger share of the market.”
Birmingham and National Openings
For Birmingham residents, the expansion brings a new Lidl store to the Kingstanding area. The company has confirmed that on opening day, customers at the Birmingham site and all other new stores can expect complimentary food sampling and the chance to win special Lidl prizes.
The expansion also sets the stage for increased competition in some areas. In Leeds, Lidl is preparing a planning application for a store at the Moor Allerton District Centre, a site already home to a Sainsbury's supermarket. Lidl argues the new branch would offer residents greater choice and boost local employment.
Full List of New Lidl Locations
The 19 new stores scheduled to open across England and Wales in this two-month phase are:
- Basildon, Laindon
- Birmingham, Kingstanding
- Brough, Welton Road
- Burntwood
- Calne
- Chester, Caldy Valley Rd
- Dereham
- Havant, Purbrook Way
- Hereford, Belmont Road
- Horley
- Hucknall, Watnall Rd
- London, Stamford Hill
- London, Walworth Road
- Reading, Tilehurst
- Royal Wootton Bassett
- Salisbury, Churchill Way West
- Sandford
- Sutton High Street
- Tring
This wave of openings continues Lidl's rapid growth, adding to its existing estate of over 1,000 stores in Britain. The move signals a confident start to 2026 for the budget retailer as it directly challenges its rivals for market share.
