Lidl plans to open 10 new UK stores before Christmas, including one in Devon

One of the UK's largest supermarket chains, Lidl, is planning to open 10 new stores across the UK before Christmas - including one in Devon.

Currently boasting about 960 stores nationwide, Lidl ranks as the sixth largest supermarket nationwide, holding a 7.6% share of the grocery market, according to the latest data from market research company, Kantar.

However, it is aiming to expand its reach to over 1,100 outlets across England, Wales, and Scotland - with these plans including a new outlet in Bovey Tracey in the coming weeks before the end of the year.

The retailer estimates that the upcoming new store openings - which also includes a site near Cribbs Causeway in Bristol - will generate approximately 400 jobs, and extend its reach to thousands more households.

Other new branches are due to open before the new year in Stirchley in Birmingham, as well as three in London. Meanwhile, existing Lidl stores in Connah's Quay in Wales, and Dagenham and Chessington in London, are scheduled for reopening after undergoing refurbishment or relocation.

Currently ranking as the sixth largest UK supermarket, Lidl falls just behind Morrisons, which has an 8.6% share of the grocery market, as well as its German competitor Aldi, which has grown its share to just under a tenth.

Additionally, Lidl has announced a leaseback deal worth £70 million, to sell 12 new stores currently under construction. Investment group Roadside Real Estate, in partnership with Meadow Partners, will acquire these stores, which are expected to open by February next year in locations including Manchester and Saffron Walden.

The deal means Lidl will get an immediate cash boost and then pay rent on the shops, which will be on 25-year leases.

Richard Taylor, Lidl Great Britain's chief development officer, commented: "Our plan to open 10 new stores before Christmas demonstrates our continued commitment to providing more communities across the country with access to affordable, quality food, as well as employment opportunities.

"But we still have big ambitions for our expansion plans to open hundreds more Lidl stores in the future. Our teams are constantly scouring the country for new sites, identifying opportunities not just in towns where we don’t currently have stores, but also in areas where existing stores are experiencing increasing demand."