Lidl willing to lease sites, build smaller stores

Following an initial growth period that fell short of expectations, Lidl once again has a full head of steam as it searches for sites in Greater Philadelphia and beyond. When the German retailer began looking for sites a few years ago, it would only purchase property that could accommodate its 36,000 square foot freestanding prototype.

Now, with some U.S. real estate and operating experience under its belt, the company is employing a more flexible approach. In addition to buying property and self-developing, Lidl will lease space and consider smaller formats.

As reported by winsightgrocerybusiness.com, a Lidl real estate brochure being distributed in the U.S. shows a variety of store formats, including ground floor commercial spaces in urban buildings, and dark supermarket spaces in shopping centers. Store sizes range from 15,000 to 36,000 square feet.

"The brochure is tailored to the U.S. and conveys our openness to different formats and possibilities," said Lidl Spokesperson Will Harwood.

Of the 58 U.S. stores now operating, all share a similar 36,000 square foot prototype, and all were ground up construction. The company's first leased property is scheduled to open soon in Staten Island, NY.

A&P looking for buyers

Last week A&P, which operates under the Super Fresh and Pathmark banners in the Greater Philadelphia market, acknowledged that it is "seeking alternatives for its business," adding that a sale of the company was only one of its options.

In other words, A&P is for sale.

According to a New York Post story, A&P is looking to sell 137 of its 301 stores, including all 10 of its Food Emporium stores in Manhattan, high-volume Pathmark stores in Queens and Staten Island, and low-volume A&P stores.