Lidl sets sights on expanding west London presence

Supermarket chain Lidl is targeting some of London’s wealthiest neighbourhoods for expansion, with Chelsea, Kensington and Mayfair among potential areas. Lidl has drawn up a list of 247 locations, which also includes Westminster and Knightsbridge. Its wider ambition is to open 1,100 stores by the end of 2025. For a prospective store in London, Lidl is looking for sites measuring at least 34,850 sq ft, close to public transport links. Outside of London, potential locations for expansion include Horsham, Cranbrook, Merseyside, Cheshire, Ainsdale, Runcorn, Ascot, Reading, Crawley, Falmouth and Fareham. Beyond the capital, it is searching for prominent locations with easy access and strong pedestrian or traffic flow, measuring between 18,000 sq ft and 26,500 sq ft. The grocer trades from more than 100 stores in London and within the M25, including Tottenham Court Road, Shepherd’s Bush, Clapham Junction and Brixton. Overall, it operates around 900 stores in the UK. The Times (£) Photo by Maureen McLean/Shutterstock (10629878p)