Work has started in Co Londonderry on what will become Northern Ireland’s largest Lidl supermarket.
The new site in Coleraine’s Riverside Retail Park has an area of 2,475 square metres, of which 1,752 will be used for the sales floor.
The store is estimated to create 18 new jobs, added to the around 22 staff who will relocate from the store’s current location in the retail park.
The supermarket will open in spring 2025, and Lidl says that it will feature wider aisles and more higher energy efficiency.
There are plans for 152 parking spaces, as well two electric vehicle charging points.
Lidl estimates that the project will create around 200 other jobs in design, construction and landscaping.
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The supermarket group has been investing millions of pounds in Northern Ireland, opening new locations and updating existing ones.
It came 56th on the Belfast Telegraph’s list of Top 100 Companies in Northern Ireland for 2024.
It made a pre-tax profit last year of £11m on a turnover of £434.1m, and employs over 1,200 people.
The company has a market share of just over 9% of the supermarket business in Northern Ireland.
Ivan Ryan, the regional managing director of Lidl NI, told Ulster Business this month that the company is aiming for a 20% market share in Northern Ireland.
The company is aiming to increase its network of 41 current stores to 50 by the end of this decade.
Ivan Ryan, Lidl Northern Ireland regional managing director
Speaking as work began on the new Coleraine store, Mr Ryan said: “We’re thrilled to be opening a new store in Coleraine which marks another step forward in advancing our plans to bring our successful ‘big on quality, Lidl on price’ proposition to even more shoppers, to enhance the shopping experience and create new jobs and local investment.
“Our mission is to ensure we provide best value and choice, and the creation of this bright, new modern ‘concept’ store will reflect our growth ambitions in the local area and right across the region.”
Ciarán McQuillan, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, added: “This is a welcome announcement for Coleraine and indeed the Borough, including the confirmation of new jobs and investment for the area.
“Lidl NI investment and growing presence in the locality and region is fantastic news for both shoppers and the wider community in Coleraine.
“I am keen to see the progress of this new store and look forward to its opening in due course.”
News Catch Up: Wednesday 14 August