The Green Post Ireland
Lidl has announced a €420 million investment programme across Munster, with plans to create more than 500 permanent jobs, develop new supermarkets and expand its regional distribution infrastructure.
The supermarket retailer confirmed the investment on Friday, October 23, with €306 million allocated to County Cork.
The programme includes a new €200 million regional distribution centre at Little Island, Cork, alongside the development of 14 new stores across Munster and the redevelopment of 10 existing locations.
Cork to Receive €306 Million in Lidl Investment
Cork will account for the largest share of Lidl’s regional expansion, with €306 million earmarked for projects across the county.
The new distribution centre at Little Island represents the biggest individual development within the programme.
Lidl said the investment would create approximately 250 permanent jobs in Cork, half of the total new positions planned across Munster.
Tara O’Connor, Lidl Ireland’s regional managing director, said the distribution facility and store developments would strengthen the company’s operations and create long-term employment opportunities.
More Than 500 Permanent Jobs and Thousands of Construction Roles
Lidl expects the €420 million programme to generate more than 500 permanent positions across Munster.
The retailer currently employs over 1,300 people in the region, with its workforce projected to exceed 1,800 once the planned developments are completed.
The company also estimates that the programme will support more than 4,500 construction jobs across 25 developments.
The expansion is part of Lidl’s wider €600 million five-year investment strategy in Ireland, which includes plans to open up to 35 additional stores nationwide.
Lidl Highlights Support for Cork Suppliers
Alongside its investment in stores and infrastructure, Lidl highlighted its relationships with local food producers.
The company said it purchased €136 million worth of produce from 120 Cork-based suppliers last year.
Those suppliers include Keohane Seafoods, Castlecor Potatoes and Irish Yogurts.
Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland chief executive Robert Ryan described the investment as a demonstration of the retailer’s long-term confidence in Cork and the wider Munster region.
He said the programme would strengthen Lidl’s infrastructure while supporting employment, construction activity and local businesses.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin Welcomes Investment
Taoiseach Micheál Martin welcomed the announcement, describing the €420 million commitment as a significant investment in Ireland.
He highlighted the role of retailers such as Lidl in creating employment, supporting domestic suppliers and contributing to local communities.
The new distribution centre, planned supermarket openings and redevelopment projects are expected to increase Lidl’s operational capacity across Munster.
