Lidl spokesperson Chandler Ebeier says there are a number of aspects that make Lidl unique.
"One way we differentiate is we are a smaller store so through that we are able to have convenient in-and-out shopping, and it's easy to navigate. Plus we have a standard store design, so it doesn't matter which store you go in to, that's how the store will be set up," said Ebeier.
So what can you expect to find in Lidl?
- A 20,000 square foot location with six aisles
- A bakery located at the front of each store, featuring fresh-made bread and pastries
- Numerous organic and gluten-free options
- Exclusive brand products making up roughly 90 percent of the store's groceries
- A "surprise" section of non-food products, in stores for a limited time. Surprise items include kitchen appliances, outdoor furniture, toys, fitness gear, etc.
The company plans on opening more locations later this summer, with three additional NC locations in Havelock, Rockingham and Wake Forest.
"We plan to open 20 stores in Virgina, North Carolina and South Carolina this summer and 100 stores along the East Coast within the first year," said Ebeier.
The new locations will bring an estimated 5,000 jobs to the East Coast.
In total, Lidl operates more than 10,000 stores in 28 countries. U.S. headquarters are in Virginia and its new distribution center is in Alamance County.
Store hours for North Carolina locations are from 8 a.m. - 9 p.m., Monday through Friday.