DECATUR, AL - After announcing plans to open 100 locations in the United States by mid-2018, Lidl US is reportedly slowing its roll. According to Decatur Daily, Lidl initially announced last September it would be opening its first Alabama location after purchasing 4.4 acres of property that included a 35,000-square-foot “free-standing store” in Decatur, Alabama. However, Lidl will no longer be purchasing that property, or any property in Alabama, according to city officials.

“They canceled the deal just like they canceled a bunch of others along the East Coast,” said Jeff Parker of Parker Real Estate, who also noted that the Calvary Assembly of God’s property Lidl had inked a deal to purchase is back on the market for $2.85 million.

Lidl first joined the American market last year after opening nine stores along the East Coast. And, while the retailer announced it would be opening 100 stores by mid-2018, Lidl has only successfully opened 20 locations in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia, with no word about the remaining 80 locations. The news source reports that Lidl could be restructuring its expansion plans and reverting back to the familiar territory of opening smaller 15,000- to 20,000-square-foot stores similar to its European format.

City Director of Development Wally Terry told Decatur Daily that while Lidl won’t be opening up shop in Alabama, competitor Aldi is increasing its Decatur store by 30 percent and will be expanding into the adjacent storefront. Aldi currently has 1,600 stores in 35 states, with 20 locations in Alabama.

While Lidl runs more than 10,000 stores in 28 countries, will the retailer continue to push into the American market with a modified expansion plan? AndNowUKnow will continue to keep you in the loop on all things grocery retail.

Lidl US