Lidl opens distribution center in the Netherlands

German supermarket Lidl has opened its European distribution center in Roosendaal, in the Netherlands. Eventually, all of Lidl’s online orders in Europe will be fulfilled through this center. In order to do this, it will gradually expand its work force and inventory.

The German discount supermarket has been selling online in Europe for years. It has an online store in the UK, for example, as well as in the Benelux. In 2017, the company announced plans to open a large distribution center in the Netherlands.

Opening delayed

However, the opening was delayed as other businesses on the business park protested against it. They were afraid that Lidl’s fleet would cause traffic jams on a connecting road. In 2020, the Dutch council of state proved Lidl right. Now, the company is finally opening the new center.

Currently 600 exmployees

The center is 6 hectares big and currently has 600 employees working there. Lidl wants to increase this number to 1,200 employees. It is unclear how soon it will be able to expand its work force.

‘Inventory is coming in phases.’

“Inventory is coming in phases, according to schedule”, said a press officer from the supermarket. It is expected that the center will be operating in its full capacity by summer 2023. The center will then be used to fulfill all online orders in Europe.