Lidl Italia's expansion plan continues, strengthening its presence in Emilia-Romagna with a new opening in Bologna. The group has opened its eighth store in the city at Via Piero Gobetti 8, located in a strategic area undergoing urban redevelopment: the former fruit and vegetable market. The opening was also attended by the city's Councilor for Commerce, Luisa Guidone, confirming the importance of the project to the local economic fabric. The new store represents not only a commercial presence but also a key element in the urban regeneration of the northern part of the city.
In terms of employment, the opening had an immediate impact, with the hiring of 26 new employees. The store is open Monday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., thus expanding the proximity offering for local residents and commuters. The project also stands out for its focus on environmental sustainability. Located in the Navile district, near the central station and the new municipal building, the supermarket spans over 1.200 square meters and was designed according to the latest energy standards. The building covers 100% of its energy needs from renewable sources, thanks in part to a 124 kW photovoltaic system that achieves energy efficiency class A3.
Particular attention has been paid to energy efficiency: the lighting combines natural light with LED technology, ensuring energy savings of 50% compared to traditional systems. The outdoor area has also been redeveloped, with the construction of a parking lot with over 100 spaces and the installation of charging stations for electric cars and bicycles. On the retail front, the new store replicates the brand's consolidated format, offering a broad and diverse assortment. From fresh fruit and vegetables delivered daily to the bakery and rotisserie departments, to its own-brand lines, including Italiamo, dedicated to Italian gastronomic excellence. The brand offers over 90 ongoing products and approximately 150 seasonal promotional products, showcasing regional produce.
Alongside food, non-food offerings remain central, with brands like Parkside for DIY and Silvercrest for home improvement, distinctive elements of the evolved discount model. The Bologna opening is part of a broader growth strategy: Lidl Italia, present in the country since 1992, currently has approximately 800 stores and 12 logistics hubs, with a workforce of over 23. This model focuses on a select assortment, private labels, and a national supply chain, considering that 80% of the products on the shelves are made in Italy.
