Lidl GB announced that it is recruiting over 1,500 warehouse staff across its existing regional distribution centre (RDC) network, while confirming plans to build a new RDC on a 35-acre site in Gildersome, Leeds.

“The plans submitted to Leeds City Council for a 54,000m2 build represent a significant investment and showcases Lidl GB’s commitment to fostering local economic growth, alongside its continued expansion within Great Britain,” said Lidl.

“The discounter estimates this new RDC would create over 400 job opportunities if approved and once fully operational.

“Over the last five years Lidl GB’s focus on regional operational expansion has been unprecedented, opening four RDCs including Motherwell, Peterborough, Doncaster and a second site in Belvedere.

“These three sites have collectively created over 1,400 jobs for people up and down the country.

“Building on this momentum, and further strengthening its infrastructure across the country, the discounter will open its Luton RDC – the largest in any Lidl market globally – creating more than 1,500 jobs and serving over 150 stores in London and the surrounding counties once fully operational.”

Richard Taylor, Chief Development Officer at Lidl GB, said: “Our ambitious warehouse plans demonstrate our commitment to investing not only in our distribution network but the country as a whole. An RDC in Leeds would be a great addition to the North, while we continue to keep a lookout for new sites in the South.

“In the last five years we have opened over 240,000m2 of warehouse space and invested over £700m, but we need more space and people to help us meet our growth targets. We’ve built an impressive store portfolio across the country and our vision to have over 1,100 stores in Great Britain remains unchanged.”

Lidl GB, which currently has more than 960 stores and employs around 31,000 people, plans to continue its expansion throughout 2023.