Lidl to launch convenience format in Germany, Switzerland

German retail giant Lidl is exploring the convenience store format with plans to open its first Express format in Berlin and expand convenience meal offering in Switzerland, as reported on retailanalysis.igd.com.

The ‘Express’ format to be launched in the German capital will have a tagline “Always.More.Online” as Lidl boosts online and convenience sales.

The store, smaller than a standard Lidl grocery store, will offer mostly convenience products and allow customers pick up orders made online in the store.

In Switzerland, Lidl is venturing into ready-to-eat foods to respond to an increasing demand for convenience meals.

It has been offering salads, sandwiches, pizza, and chicken nuggets and will look into expanding it to more stores.

However, it has no plans to launch a specific convenience meal despite Swiss retailer Coop offering a new convenience food format.