UK: Lidl unveils new store of future format as part of 1.5 billion pounds expansion plan | Progresiv
Lidl has announced that it will spend 1.5 billion pounds over the next three years accelerating its expansion and overhauling its stores, in an effort to grab further share from the Big 4 multiples. 
The fast-growing discounter is now looking to open 40-50 new outlets a year in the UK, up from a previous target of 30-40. It also plans to refurbish around 150 of its existing 629 sites to a new “Lidl of the future” concept, which is more efficient to run and includes wider aisles, toilets with baby changing facilities, self-service checkouts and larger packing areas to meet the needs of the modern shopper. Fresh fruit areas and bakery sections will be expanded and moved to the front of the store, whilst staff numbers will be increased to improve customer service.
The first 2 million pounds store of the future opens today in Rushden, Northamptonshire, with a state-of-the-art, glass fronted design. It is also bigger that the average Lidl outlet with a sales space of 1,400 sq. m. Ingo Fischer, Lidl UK’s board director of property and expansion, said the new stores would improve efficiency and help streamline the chain’s processes. (www.kamcity.com)
