Construction has begun on the new 'Concept' Lidl store in Coleraine, marking the start of the supermarket chain's multimillion-pound initiative to revamp its retail estate throughout Northern Ireland.

At least 18 new jobs will be created as part of a multi-million-pound local store investment, bringing the total team employed to 40. Around 200 jobs are also being created as part of the project, including in design, construction, landscaping and other services.

The new store will move from its current location in Riverside Retail Park, Coleraine—where it has been operating since 2005—to a larger space within the same complex. Spanning 2,475 square metres, including a 1,752 square metre sales floor, the new store will be the largest Lidl in Northern Ireland when it opens next spring.

Lidl Northern Ireland, the region's fastest-growing supermarket retailer, received planning approval from Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council for the project last year. Following its modern 'Concept' design and sustainability standards, the new store will feature wider aisles and industry-leading energy efficiency systems.

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The new store will feature upgraded parking for 152 vehicles and two electric vehicle charging points, underscoring Lidl Northern Ireland’s dedication to sustainability and improving the customer experience. This Coleraine location is the latest addition to Lidl’s investments in the northwest, following recent store openings in Strabane, Ballymoney and Limavady.

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Councillor Ciarán McQuillan said: "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."

Ivan Ryan, Lidl Northern Ireland Regional Managing Director, 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."

Earlier this year, Lidl Northern Ireland celebrated its 25th anniversary in the region, revealing a record £360 million contribution to the local economy last year and support for nearly 6,900 jobs, including 1,300 direct positions. The retailer also committed an extra £150 million for new store expansion, aiming to grow its network to 50 stores by the end of the decade.