Grocer Celebrates Judgment as In-Store Lidl Pub Advances Significantly for First Time
Strolling through the aisles of your neighborhood grocery store, you might find yourself thinking, "I could use a quick break with a refreshing beverage." And it looks like Lidl might just make that dream a reality for you, at least for some of their customers in Dundonald, County Down.
In a major move, Lidl, the German discount supermarket chain, has been given the green light to establish its first in-store pub. The ruling came after a High Court judge rejected a legal challenge against Lidl, allowing the retailer to proceed with plans for a bar within its Dundonald, County Down, store.
Lidl, which has been operating in the U.S. for around a decade, had initially encountered opposition to establishing a liquor store within the store but is now determined to make the in-store pub a success if the new application is approved.
The proposed pub will feature a main bar with seating for 45 customers, a liquor store area, and a number of tables and seating areas inside. Additional facilities include a lobby area, keg room, storage space with an ice machine, chill store, and office, as well as three restrooms. Lidl plans to invest nearly half a million dollars in the project.
Lidl's proposed pub has faced challenges, with objections being raised by Philip Russell, which operates several liquor stores across Northern Ireland. However, the judge determined that Lidl had indeed established the necessary inadequacy and that the new pub would replace two previously operating pubs in the area, be located near transport and shopping facilities, and serve an increasing adult population. If the pub were to be unsuccessful due to lack of profitability, Lidl would comply with licensing regulations by allowing the off-licence permission to lapse.
As for whether a pub would blend well with the eccentric charm of the Middle of Lidl aisle, that remains another story altogether. But one thing's for sure: Lidl is determined to take a break from selling groceries and give shoppers a place to take a break and grab a drink as well.
After securing the approval for their in-store pub, Lidl customers in Dundonald, County Down, might now enjoy a drink at the local Lidl liquor store. If everything goes as planned, shoppers can unwind at the instore pub, complete with a main bar, liquor store, and ample seating areas.
