Lidl has revealed that it is recruiting over 1,500 warehouse workers as it confirms plans to build a new 38-acre site in Leeds.
The new warehouse in Gildersome, Leeds, will create 400 new jobs while the German discounter is also ramping up its recruitment drive across its existing regional distribution centre (RDC) network.
The multi-million-pound investment forms part of Lidl’s focus on strengthening infrastructure to support its stores across the UK.
Lidl’s largest ever warehouse is set to open this August in Luton creating more than 1,500 jobs. It is also on the hunt for new store locations as it seeks to reach over 1,100 operational UK sites.
The discounter, which currently has more than 960 stores and employs around 31,000 people in the UK, plans to continue its expansion throughout 2023.
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Over the last five years, Lidl’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 alone have created more than 1,400 jobs for people up and down the country. All new recruits will earn a minimum of £11 an hour outside of London and £11.95 inside the M25, including a 10% staff discount.
“Our ambitious warehouse plans demonstrate our commitment to investing not only in our distribution network but the country as a whole,” Lidl GB chief development officer Richard Taylor said.
“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 240,000 m2 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.”
Chief executive officer of Lidl GB, Ryan McDonnell added: “Demand for Lidl has never been higher as more and more people realise they can make significant savings on every shop without compromising on quality.
“Our success is dependent on the amazing work that colleagues do and we’re looking forward to welcoming thousands more throughout 2023.”
