Lidl is making a massive investment worth £435 million in two warehouses as it accelerates its plan to expand in the UK. According to the reports, the popular discount chain will be able to generate around 500 more jobs with the investment in Leeds and London warehouses.
The two-stage extension with an investment of £285m at its Belvedere site in London has been completed across two buildings. The initial investment phase, totalling £160 million, funded the construction of a brand-new second warehouse. In the subsequent stage, the original facility was demolished to make room for a cutting-edge warehouse that tripled overall capacity.
Lidl has significantly expanded its logistics capabilities at Belvedere, now boasting 800,000 square feet of warehouse space, a remarkable 167 percent increase since the site first opened in 2003. Once the facility is fully operational, it will support distribution to 120 stores across a wide area, from Brentford to Dorking, with capacity to accommodate future store openings as well.
In addition to this major development, Lidl recently broke ground on a new 38-acre site in Gildersome, Leeds, where it plans to invest £150 million, further reinforcing its commitment to growth and infrastructure across the UK, reports The Grocer.
According to the supermarket, the plans at Belvedere will create 120 new positions and the Leeds warehouse resulting in 400 new roles.
Lidl GB chief real estate officer Richard Taylor said: “We’re proud to play our role in driving economic growth, while continuing to establish an infrastructure that delivers sustainable growth for our ambitious expansion plans.
“But these investments are not just about logistics. The updates today also represent an investment in our mission to make good food accessible to households across the country.”
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves added: “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.
“Through our Plan for Change we’re backing business and working in partnership to deliver growth and opportunity in communities across the country.”
