Lidl Announces Plans for New Stores at 5 Dorset Locations
Supermarket giant Lidl has announced plans to expand its presence in Dorset by targeting five new store locations. This initiative is part of Lidl’s broader strategy to enhance its footprint across the UK, where it already operates over 1,000 stores.
Lidl’s Expansion Plans in Dorset
Lidl is focusing on several key areas in Dorset for new store development:
- Poole (Centre/Parkstone)
- Sherborne
- Swanage
- Weymouth
- Wimborne
While specific addresses have not been disclosed, these locations emphasize Lidl’s commitment to finding quality sites conducive to its continued growth.
Job Creation and Store Requirements
The proposed expansion will coincide with the creation of approximately 640 jobs. In addition to the five new openings, Lidl is also looking to relocate existing stores in areas such as Bridport, Boscombe, Christchurch, Dorchester, and Weymouth.
Lidl has set forth specific criteria for potential new store sites:
- Minimum store size of 18,000 sq ft (1,672 m²)
- Site area of at least 1.5 acres
- Dedicated parking for over 100 vehicles
- A population of more than 20,000 within the catchment area
- Presence of 5,000 residents in the main center
- Preference for freehold, leasehold, or long leasehold properties
- Location in a prominent and highly visible area
Recent Developments and Future Projects
Lidl has already received approval for new stores in Dorset slated for 2026. One notable project includes a store at Westover Retail Park in Bournemouth. After an initial planning application faced rejection in early 2025, amended plans were successfully approved by BCP Council in March.
Additionally, a Lidl store opened in Sandford in February 2023, reflecting the company’s aim to respond to local demand for affordable groceries. Regional head of property, James Mitchell, expressed excitement about the new developments, emphasizing Lidl’s commitment to serving local communities.
As Lidl continues to explore new opportunities, it invites community input on desired locations for future stores in Dorset.
