ROCKINGHAM — Hundreds of shoppers gathered at Lidl on Thursday morning to see what the new grocery store has to offer.
The parking lot of the German grocery chain was packed full of shoppers, anticipating good deals. And the line outside, wrapped around the side of the building, while the staff greeted customers and handed out reusable shopping bags. Doors opened at 8:00 a.m. following a ribbon cutting ceremony with Mayor Steve Morris.
Bianca Jones, a new employee at Lidl, expressed excitement for the grand opening. “I am excited about finally opening. We have been training in Charlotte since April, so I’m just ready to get started.”
Lidl is an international company with U.S. headquarters in Arlington, VA. In a recent press release, Lidl noted that it prides itself on “offering customers the highest quality fresh produce, meat, bakery items and a wide array of household products at the lowest possible prices. “
Jones confirms that the food is the main difference she sees in Lidl and other grocery stores.
“We have our own farms and our own cows. That’s one of the things I really like because the company knows exactly where the food is coming from. All of our cows and chickens are antibiotic free and no added hormones,” she says.
Other shoppers noticed the price difference. A manager from a Food Lion in a neighboring county, Dantwan Whitley, commented on the prices. “Their prices are almost a dollar cheaper on similar items.”
He did say, however, that Food Lion still beats them out in some areas. “Our Tide is only $2.99, so our laundry detergent seems to be cheaper.” Whitley said. He noted that Food Lion still has its giveaways and daily specials and welcomes the competition.
The setup is very similar in both Lidl and next-door competitor Aldi, particularly in the way the product is displayed and by the exclusive brands that they carry; for instance, there are no big brand names like Land-o-Lakes or Simply Lemonade which are found in bigger chains like Food Lion or Walmart.
Lidl does carry items such as school supplies and small kitchen appliances, which are a key difference in them and Aldi. The store also offers weekly themed shopping.
“This week is Italian week and customers will be able to purchase items straight from Italy at discounted prices,” added Bianca Jones.
An inflatable broccoli walked through the store, grabbing the attention of all of the young shoppers. Outside he danced to the music provided by the DJ and posed for pictures. Lidl also had welcoming sign-twirlers and parking attendants for the day.
Lidl is located in Rockingham, NC at 705 U.S. Highway 74 Business East. Operating hours are from 8am to 9 p.m. Monday through Sunday.
