Lidl is set to open the first ever pub inside a UK store, allowing shoppers to drink alcohol on site.
The German giants secured a landmark victory in the High Court to open its first-ever pub inside a supermarket in Northern Ireland.
The ruling clears the way for the discount chain to operate a bar within its Dundonald store near Belfast, following a legal challenge.
The decision came after Lidl had previously secured planning permission in 2020 for a tap room on the premises, marking a unique development in the company’s retail operations.
Lidl will build a boozer inside one of its stores in Northern Ireland (stock pic)
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The supermarket chain plans to invest £410,000 in fitting out the new in-store pub, which will operate alongside an off-sales area.
The development follows an agreement with local bar owners to surrender their existing licence for the new venture.
The move represents a significant shift for Lidl, which had previously been denied permission for a standalone off-licence at the same store.
Philip Russell Ltd, which operates several off-licences across Northern Ireland, had raised formal objections to Lidl’s plans.
The drinks trader argued that Lidl had failed to demonstrate an inadequacy of licensed premises in the area, a requirement under the Licensing (Northern Ireland) Order 1996.
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The court determined Lidl had proven the necessary inadequacy, pointing out the new premises would be the only licensed venue in an area that previously had two pubs (stock pic)
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They also claimed it was an improper attempt to bypass legislation by effectively making another application for an off-licence.
Justice Colton dismissed claims about inadequate licensed premises, noting the unique nature of the application should not prevent its approval.
“The fact that the application is a novel one is not a reason for refusing it,” the judge stated.
The court determined Lidl had proven the necessary inadequacy, pointing out the new premises would be the only licensed venue in an area that previously had two pubs.
The location was deemed suitable due to its proximity to established shopping and transport facilities, alongside a growing adult population.
In his final ruling, Justice Colton accepted Lidl’s commitment to operating a genuine public house at the location.
The judge highlighted the significant financial investment, stating: “It will invest a significant sum of money, at least £410,000 into fitting out the public house.”
He concluded that Lidl had made a bona fide application and demonstrated the pub would be profitable.
“I am satisfied that it meets the statutory requirements and there is no good reason for refusing the application,” Justice Colton said.
