Case Study: European Grocer Lidl Chooses Arlington for U.S. HQ

November 11, 2021

European-based grocer Lidl has been delivering freshness to its customers since it first opened its automatic doors in Ludwigshafen, Germany in 1973. By the 90s, the company had locations across Europe and was experiencing great success offering high-quality products at low prices.

So, when this leading European retailer was seeking to expand its roots (and fresh-picked veggies) to the U.S., it was no surprise that this revolutionary company was seeking a revolutionary location to match. Beyond a prime East Coast address, Lidl was seeking assistance with development and permitting, as well as support to hire and acclimate a new workforce — all services Arlington, VA was ripe to deliver.

In Fall 2015, Lidl established its U.S. headquarters in Arlington, purchasing 218,000 square feet of existing commercial space in the innovative Crystal City neighborhood.

How AED Helped Lidl Go Far

AED offered Lidl a variety of relocation services to help with the company's acclimation and expansion to the U.S. market:

Information Fair

AED organized a “Welcome to Arlington” day for Lidl employees, an onsite trade show showcasing Arlington and regional service providers specializing in daycare, housing and transportation. Additionally, local neighborhood merchants offered food and product samplings to help employees become better acquainted with their new community.

Permitting Assistance

Understanding Lidl’s strict construction timelines, AED worked with Arlington’s permitting office to expedite fit-out permitting and signage regulations. This allowed Lidl to occupy floors as construction was completed, saving the company time and money.

Workforce Development

AED connected Lidl with local and statewide Workforce Services Councils and higher education institutions to assist the company with its hiring needs.

Today, Lidl continues to grow in this price-conscious market with more than 100 U.S. stores across nine states.