Lidl, a German supermarket chain, is planning to open six new stores on the island of Ireland and to rebuild seven existing stores this year.
Lidl already has 168 stores and three regional distribution centers in Ireland. The company, currently employing 5,000 people in Ireland, is expected to create 1,200 more jobs by next year. Positions will be in operational and office-based roles in the company’s stores, local distribution centers, and head office in Dublin.
The international discount supermarket says it will spend €75 million to expand its local distribution center at Mullingar in Co Westmeath.
The company has suffered no significant losses due to the pandemic, as people consume more of their food at home. As a result, the company reportedly held 11.8% of the Irish grocery market at the end of last year. Moreover, the value of sales increased by 27% over the same period last year.
It has thus become one of the fastest growing supermarket groups in Ireland in terms of market share. In addition, the Top Employers Institute recognised Lidl as a Top Employer for 2021.
However, due to the COVID-19 restrictions, 700 additional temporary and permanent workers had to be deployed in stores to ensure that supply chains were in operation and that health and safety measures were followed.
“Since the onset of the pandemic our teams have demonstrated inspirational dedication and bravery in serving our local communities when they needed it most,” said Maeve McCleane, Director of Human Resources at Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland.
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