UK: Lidl to expand in London

Discount retailer Lidl is looking to expand its footprint in London by opening 280 stores within the capital and the surrounding areas, according to a report in City AM.

Among the target locations are the pricier areas of London including Kensington, Chiswick, Dulwich, Wimbledon, Fulham, Clapham, Waterloo and Kingston. The move forms part of Lidl's drive to increase its UK store count to 1,500. Currently the retailer operates 629 stores, including 70 in the London area.

Speaking to City AM, Lidl’s UK property director Richard Taylor commented on the move by saying: “As we continue with our ambitious store expansion programme across the UK, we’re seeing strong demand, particularly within the greater London area, for an intelligent retail choice like Lidl. The nature of our store concepts mean that customers will be able to carry out their full weekly shop no matter which store they visit, and have confidence that prices will remain consistent across all locations".

“We are looking forward to offering our fantastic value and quality products to more customers, as well as bringing new jobs and investment across London in the not-too-distant future”, he added.

Source: City AM