Supermarket giants Lidl have included Stockport in a list of desirable new store locations across the UK. 

Richard Taylor, Lidl's chief development officer, confirmed that there was "no ceiling on [their] ambition or growth potential", as the retailers look to open around 150 new stores across the UK within the next three years. 

The Stockport area currently has two Lidl stores; one just south of the centre and another in Cheadle Hulme. One store was proposed recently for North Reddish, however plans have since been cancelled.

Citing increased numbers of shoppers and strong desire for growth, Lidl have suggested they would like to build 'multiple' stores across Stockport, although no further concrete plans are in place as of yet. 

In their hunt for new sites, the retailers are offering a reward for anybody who can identify a good spot for development. The criteria they describe involve: 

• "Prominent locations with easy access and strong pedestrian or traffic flow. 
• "Freehold, leasehold or long leasehold opportunities. 
• "Unit sizes between 18,000 and 26,500 sq. ft and 100+ dedicated car parking spaces. 
• "1.5+ acres for standalone stores or up to 4 acres for mixed-use schemes. 
• "Town centre or edge of centre and retail parks. 

Giving details of the reward, Lidl stated: "A finder's fee of either 1.5% of the total freehold or 10% of the first year's rent for leaseholds will be given to anyone, including members of the public, who successfully identify sites for the potential development of new Lidl stores. Locations with easy access for pedestrians and space for parking are optimal." 

Ryan McDonnell, Lidl GB CEO, commented: "The last few years have been challenging for everyone, but we've made it clear that we're more committed than ever to ensuring that every single household has access to a Lidl store.

"That's why our focus is firmly on the future as we continue to grow and invest in our infrastructure, while keeping a lookout for more sites and locations across the country. 

"We had over 1.4 million new shoppers coming to us from our competitors over the course of last year.

"This alone shows the potential for continued growth as customers refuse to pay a premium for their shopping, when they know they can get the same, if not better quality at Lidl.

"As we progress further into 2023, we know that more shoppers will make the switch, and whichever of our stores they choose, they know they're getting the best value." 

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