Opening date confirmed for Chichester's new Lidl store

Lidl GB has confirmed that the store on Westhampnett Road, which is replacing its existing branch at Portfield Way, will open after a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 8am. Plans to convert the existing premises to a gym were given the go-ahead in September.Customers are invited to the opening ceremony and will be able 'sample some of Lidl’s award winning products throughout the day', along with 'exclusive deals and offers on selected products' for the first week of opening.

A spokesperson said: "These include a cordless drill (£19.99, RRP £39.99) from Thursday, February 27, an ultra HD smart TV (£160, RRP £229) from Friday, February 28, and 15L mini oven (£19.99, RRP £29.99) from Saturday, February 29."

The new supermarket forms part of the company’s ongoing expansion and regeneration plans which will see it open more than 50 stores a year.

The two-acre site off Westhampnett Road is owned by Chichester District Council and has been developed in conjunction with Brookhouse Group Limited.

In a statement last year, the district council said: “The development also brings this unused land back into use and will help generate vital income for Chichester District Council.

"This will go into protecting frontline services for residents across the district and ensure financial stability for the council.”

Lidl revealed the sales area of the supermarket has increased in size to 1,325m² and facilities including a bakery, customer toilets, baby changing and ample parking for both cars and bicycles. 'Up to 20 new jobs' have also been created for the local community.

Lidl GB’s regional head of property, James Mitchell, said: “We would like to thank all those who have played a part in improving our Lidl store in Chichester.

"It is great for us to be able to create more jobs and investment opportunities in the area, and we can’t wait to start serving our multi-award winning products to the local community once again.”

The company's spokesperson continued: "Lidl GB has experienced continued growth over the years as consumers flock to the supermarket to discover its great value products — more than two thirds of which are British sourced — ranging from quality fruit and vegetables, to premium wines from its much coveted Wine Tour collections.

"Its ongoing success shows no signs of slowing, with the latest Kantar Worldpanel results highlighting Lidl’s continued success with increased sales year on year and market share high of 5.9 per cent."

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