From the very first day it opened for business in Cyprus, and up to the present time, Lidl Cyprus has not only managed to change the way we shop – it has also established itself as one of the most dynamic and steadily growing businesses on the island, positively impacting the economy, the community, the environment as well as consumer experience.

On the occasion of its 15 year-long operation in the Cypriot market, let us recall 15 milestones along a trajectory that has coupled innovation to responsibility and growth.

Off with a bang

In 2010 Lidl Cyprus did far more than just take its first step; it took a decisive leap, launching seven stores plus a distribution centre with 450 employees across the island. Since day one, its goal has been to offer quality, low prices and consistency – and the results speak for themselves.

Steady growth

Today the network has grown to 21 stores, employing more than 700 people. This expansion is not limited to numbers, it’s also strategic – new stores, modern spaces, improved purchasing experience and ongoing investment in service, are just a few of the building blocks that have made Lidl Cyprus the top choice for consumers.

Hands-on innovation

In 2015 Lidl Cyprus launched the Lidl Food Academy, a multi-purpose facility located in the centre of Nicosia offering training, cooking, culinary experience and sustainability. In 2021 the concept went mobile with the creation of the Lidl Food Academy on the Go, which has ever since promoted proper dieting as well as environmental awareness at schools across the country, even in the remotest areas.

Focused on innovation

Lidl Cyprus has never stalled; by investing in consumer digital experience – through Lidl Plus – and by deploying systems like the Auto Dispo that ensure rational management of inventory, the company has forged ahead, always oriented to technological advancement and sustainability.

Responsible entrepreneurship in practice

The REset Plastic environmental strategy, the ISO 50001 certification, the gradual disengagement from print material, and the use of energy-saving technologies, all attest to Lidl’s commitment to minimising its carbon footprint.

Multiplier effect

According to the latest Socioeconomic Impact Report, every €1 spent by a consumer at Lidl Cyprus creates added value that dissipates across the entire economic spectrum. Moreover, Lidl Cyprus contributes 0.51 per cent to Cyprus’ GDP while creating some 2,000 jobs across its supply chain.

Investing in people

Offering 13.5 salaries, vouchers worth €400 a year, private healthcare insurance, and a minimum gross wage of €1,220 (recently announced), Lidl Cyprus invests in human capital consistently and responsibly. At the same time, the company continues to roll out training and reskilling and upskilling programmes while fostering a culture of inclusivity and equality.

Trusting in local producers

More than 90 Cypriot suppliers have joined Lidl’s network of partners, in this way boosting the local economy and employment while also promoting Cypriot products to thousands of consumers in over 25 countries.

Substantive community outreach

Lidl Cyprus has stood by the Cyprus Red Cross Society and the Anti-Cancer Society steadfastly via longstanding partnerships. It has also engaged in dozens other social initiatives, educational programmes and actions for the benefit of vulnerable groups. It’s a contribution to the community worth more than €2.8 million.

Training for a better tomorrow

Thanks to the mind REset and Project Zero programmes, done in partnership with Junior Achievement Cyprus and the AKTI Project and Research Centre, respectively, thousands of students are learning how to protect the environment and reduce the use of plastics, in this way nurturing a more aware younger generation.

Trust is the key

Lidl’s relationship to consumers in Cyprus is based on quality, transparency and dependability. Offering known brands as well as private-label items, a wide range of products, certifications and high-quality control, Lidl Cyprus has earned a seat at the table of every Cypriot family.

From 2010 to the future

Lidl Cyprus celebrates not just 15 years of doing business in Cyprus, but also 15 years of development, responsible conduct and reliable contribution to the economy and society at large. Since starting in 2010, Lidl Cyprus has invested over €230 million in the country.

And it continues to do so, never straying from its plans or allowing itself to be thwarted by adversity. The company is planning investments worth €15 million for this year alone, with this amount set to rise to €40 million by the year 2027. These investments relate to opening new stores, but also upgrading existing ones, the aim being to enhance buyers’ experience and maximise the value of the company to consumers and the community.

With its sights firmly set on the future, and with strategic expansion plans on the cards, as well as plans to boost its social and environmental imprint, Lidl Cyprus continues to set the bar high and to redefine the concept of modern entrepreneurship.