Lidl Eyes Charlotte Market

German-based discount chain Lidl has selected Charlotte, N.C., as one of its first U.S. target markets.

The retailer, which has been compared to one of its low-priced U.S. competitors, Aldi, plans to open its first store in the Charlotte market in 2018, according to published reports. This week, Lidl reportedly confirmed that it's been looking at several properties in areas including South End, Monroe Road, Lake Norman and the Indian Land area. Several of the sites are reportedly around 33,000 to 36,000 square feet.

Lidl had originally planned to open about 100 U.S. stores this year, but it changed its plans in 2014, when two of its top executives unexpectedly left the company. Earlier this year, the retailer opened its U.S. headquarters in Arlington, Va., in preparation for its U.S. debut. Lidl currently operates 10,000 stores in 26 countries.

John Froman, public relations and marketing manager for Lidl US, was quoted as saying its U.S. stores will offer fresh meat, produce and bakery items, as well as a wide selection of household goods.