ARLINGTON, VA – New to U.S. soil but far from over planting its newly domestic roots, Lidl is continuing its expansion plans. The company has stated that not only is it making good on its original plan to enter Delaware, but the company is preparing to make a notable westward step as well. Lidl US has set its sights on Ohio.

“We are looking at sites across Ohio,” said Lidl US Public Relations and Communications Manager William Harwood, according to The Columbus Dispatch. “However, we have not yet established a timeline for stores there.” 

Marking its first break from the U.S. East Coast, the company may be first entering the state through the highly competitive Central Ohio market. On its career website, Lidl has an open position listed for a Real Estate Manager based in Columbus. The position will focus on site acquisitions for the chain in their assigned territory and is based in the Central Services business unit. 

The Columbus Dispatch also noted that the Central Ohio market is already full of competitive brands, home to Kroger, Giant Eagle, Meijer, Walmart, Whole Foods, Fresh Thyme, Earth Fare, Lucky’s, Trader Joe’s, Aldi, and more.

This Ohio entrance Lidl looks to be just the biggest announcement in another wave of growth for the discount retailer. The company will open three more stores by the end of this month, two in Virginia and North Carolina, and one in Delaware. The third new store in Delaware will be the chain’s first in the state. Lidl has had its sights set on Delaware since it first announced its U.S. intent.

Currently, Lidl has 21 stores throughout North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. 

Will the company continue its trek west as it makes good on its promise for more than 100 U.S. stores by the end of 2018? AndNowUKnow will report.

Lidl US