Lidl Unveils Location of HQ in Advance of U.S. Expansion

Fast-growing European retailer Lidl, based in Neckarsulm, Germany, will establish its U.S. corporate headquarters in Arlington County, Va., in addition to opening its regional headquarters and a distribution center in the commonwealth's Spotsylvania County. The moves are part of the company's early preparations to expand into the United States, with stores set to open no later than 2018.

Brendan Proctor, president and CEO of Lidl US, and Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe revealed the news after meeting with Lidl's top officials in Germany.

"Our philosophy is simple: We are focused on offering customers top quality products at the most competitive pricing in convenient locations," said Proctor. "We plan to build on the foundation that has made Lidl so successful in Europe, while creating a unique experience for American consumers that will be unlike anything else in the market." Proctor went on to thank McAuliffe, "as well as the teams in Arlington and Spotsylvania, who recognized Lidl's potential and worked with us to bring Lidl to the area."

"This is a significant win for Arlington County and Spotsylvania County, and the jobs and economic activity it will generate will contribute directly to my administration's work building a new Virginia economy," noted McAuliffe. "Lidl's investment demonstrates Virginia's ability to attract companies from all over the globe."

"The market opportunities, depth of the talented job force and strategic location that Virginia provides presents an incredible opportunity for Lidl to launch its expansion into the United States," added Proctor.

Lidl will invest a total of $202 million to establish operations in Virginia: $77 million for the U.S. corporate headquarters, creating 500 new jobs, and $125 million for the regional HQ and distribution center, creating another 200 positions.

Operating nearly 10,000 stores in 26 European countries, Lidl sells fresh meat, produce and bakery items, as well as a broad assortment of household products. According to Australian press reports, the retailer is readying to debut Down Under as well.