Lidl GB says it will continue its expansion with 50 more stores opening across the country this year. The discount supermarket says it welcomed an additional 43 million customer visits last year, with revenue growing by 10.8% to £13 billion and operating profit up to £345 million.
Growth and Investment
Lidl says the launch of its new 'More to Value' brand platform this year accelerated growth. Lidl invested £315 million in the last financial year into price cuts and promotions such as 'Pick of the Week'. Lidl Plus innovation remains a key focus with a significant increase in investment - including a 60% boost in funding for personalised coupons and the roll out of Lidl & Go.
Store Milestones and Expansion
Alongside reaching its 1,000th store milestone last year, Lidl GB opened over 40 new stores while investing £43 million in upgrades to more than 70 current sites - expanding freezers, self-checkouts, and energy-efficient lighting and chillers. Looking ahead, its expansion continues with more than 50 new stores opening in this financial year as part of a £600 million investment.
Colleague Pay and British Suppliers
Lidl GB invested £59 million in colleague pay increases last year. Alongside pay, the discounter also doubled its paternity leave from two to four weeks' full pay. After five years of service, colleagues will be entitled to eight weeks' full pay, making it one of the most competitive paternity leave offers in the industry.
Currently, around two-thirds of the discounter's products are from British suppliers, including 100% of its own-label beef, pork, chicken, milk, butter, cream, and eggs.
Market Position
Ryan McDonnell, Lidl GB CEO, said: "Our performance is a clear testament to the trust that millions of customers place in us every week as a direct result of the dedication of our colleagues right across the country. As we grow, our focus doesn't shift - we're constantly investing in low prices, high quality, and maximum value for our customers."
Lidl GB became the UK's fifth-largest supermarket in May 2026, with three in five households now shopping at the discounter. It has remained the fastest-growing bricks-and-mortar retailer for more than three years.
