WORK to fit-out a new branch of Lidl in West Reading has begun, set to provide the sixth branch in the town.
The store is set to open in a unit in Reading Retail Park on Oxford Road in spring next year.
It will cover over 1,220 sq metres and feature an in-store bakery, the famed ‘Middle Aisle’, and customer facilities including baby changing facilities.
The multi-million pound investment is also set to create around 40 new jobs, with colleagues at the store to receive an hourly rate of £13 as part of Lidl’s fifth pay rise in two years.
Lidl has also encouraged nearby primary schools to take part in its Lidl Foodies prgramme, which aims to help develop a love for healthy eating in school children.
James Mitchell, Regional Head of Property at Lidl GB, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have served communities in Reading for almost three decades.
“Over this time, we’ve seen demand for our affordable, high-quality products continue to grow and are committed to meeting this need with our sixth store in the area.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported us in our journey so far, we can’t wait to welcome you through our doors which are on track to open Spring next year.”
Ahead of its latest store opening the discounter is encouraging nearby Primary schools to join its Lidl Foodies programme.
Investing an initial £500,000 over two years, Lidl launched this free initiative to help children across the country develop a love for healthy eating, with a focus on fresh fruit and veg.
Local teachers are encouraged to sign up via the National Schools Partnership website to make the most of the discounter’s ready-made workshop plans.
Full details and sign-up available via: nationalschoolspartnership.com
