Lidl applies for $9.5 million in PA redevelopment grants

It was revealed last month that Lidl is seeking $9.5 million in Pennsylvania redevelopment grants for six stores, three of which are planned for Philadelphia - South Columbus Blvd. in South Philly, Butler Street in Port Richmond, and Roosevelt Blvd. in Northeast Philly.

The three other stores Lidl is seeking grants for are in Dover Borough (York County), Easton (Northampton County) and Ridley Township (Delaware County). The Ridley location opened last year and was Lidl's first store in the state.

In a story published on Philly.com, Lidl Spokesperson Will Harwood explained that Lidl often works with local government agencies and applies for available investment programs when they expand into new markets, including those that require remediation or rehabilitation.

The $9.5 million would come from Pennsylvania's Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, which is designed to support redevelopment projects that officials deem capable of having a big economic impact. Six million would be for the three Philadelphia sites.

New Walmart Supercenter in Springfield, PA goes head-to-head with Giant

A 112,133 square foot Walmart Supercenter opened last week in Springfield, PA's Marple Crossroads Shopping Center. The store employs approximately 300 people and features more than 30 merchandise departments, including a full grocery section with fresh produce, meats, dairy products, a deli and bakery.

According to Walmart's website, the average wage for full-time hourly associates in Pennsylvania is $12.15 per hour.

The store opening comes a little more than a year after a 67,000 SF Giant Food store opened less than a half mile away in Springfield Shopping Center.