From designing one of Lidl GB’s very first stores, to delivering more than 300 sites nationwide, HTC Architects has been “instrumental” in shaping Lidl’s UK growth story, according to the discounter.

Spanning Cowdenbeath in Scotland all the way to Walworth Road in London, HTC has helped Lidl through thousands of potential sites, ensuring the discounter “continues to expand with confidence, ambition and purpose”.

As Lidl has evolved, so has its store design. What began as a purely functional store design, has transformed into a modern, future-focused retail experience.

Today’s stores are larger, more efficient and built to optimum specifications with sustainability at their core, the design reflects both changing customer expectations and the discounter’s commitment to responsible development, enhancing customers’ shopping experience.

Robert Beaumont, regional property director at Lidl GB said: “By working consistently with trusted suppliers like HTC Architects over many years, we create the efficiencies, certainty, and shared ways of working that support high-quality delivery at scale. This long-term approach enables Lidl GB to expand responsibly, support jobs across the supply chain, and continue delivering unbeatable value for our customers.”

Subscribe to Grocery Gazette for free

Sign up here to get the latest grocery and food news each morning

Over the same thirty years, HTC has expanded from a two-person architectural practice in Leeds into a 40-strong firm, spanning two major city-centre offices.

Matthew Holroyd, director at HTC Architects added: “We are incredibly proud to stand as one of Lidl GB’s longest-serving partners, supporting every region with a dedicated, driven team. What began three decades ago, is a collaboration that has endured the test of time. One that has helped build the discounter’s national presence and fuel its remarkable expansion.

“Over 30 years, Lidl GB’s stores have evolved dramatically. Store areas have become larger, brighter and more welcoming, specifications have developed in parallel with building regulations to become more efficient; and sustainable. Stores typically incorporate Lidl’s instantly recognisable contemporary design, with enhanced features to tie in with local context where required. Through every shift, innovation and new ambition, we’ve been right there beside Lidl – helping bring each new generation of store design to life and enabling Lidl to continue to set the pace for modern, responsible retail design.

“It’s a partnership that has its foundation built on trust, creativity and responsibility. As Lidl continues to evolve, we’re excited to keep expanding together, welcoming customers and strengthening communities right across the country.”

Now the fifth largest supermarket in the UK, Lidl GB’s growth shows no signs of stopping. As the discounter progresses its ambitious plans to open more than 50 new stores in the next 12 months, HTC Architects is continuing to support Lidl on sites across the country.

Backed by a £600m investment, Lidl GB’s ongoing success translates directly into regional growth, delivering high-quality jobs across its supply chain.

Lidl is shortlisted for Grocer of the Year at the newly elevated RG Retail Excellence Awards 2026. The award celebrates businesses that have delivered an outstanding performance within the grocery sector, while responding to the rapidly changing needs of today’s consumers. The ceremony will take place on 14 October 2026 at The Underglobe, the prestigious events venue situated beneath the iconic Shakespeare’s Globe on London’s Bankside.