Lidl begins building its first-ever pub at a site in the UK

But will there be one coming to you soon?

Lidl was unable to get a standard off-sales licence for a shop in Northern Ireland.

Instead, it is building a pub in Dundonald in east Belfast, as its licence comes with the legal right to operate an off-sales section.

A stroke of genius, many pug goers with a penchant for pastries would agree.

The pub, which will accommodate up to 60 customers, will not operate in-store, but will be in separate premises next door.

Regional Managing Director for Lidl Northern Ireland Gordon Cruikshanks said: “Lidl has been a part of the Dundonald community for more than 20 years and in that time our shoppers and residents have been unable to avail of Lidl Northern Ireland’s full product range due to licensing restrictions.

“After six years in the planning process, we’re delighted to confirm today the development of a brand new public house and associated off-sales located adjacent to our Dundonald store, which will enable customers to enjoy access to our award-winning range of wine, beer and spirits, some of which are crafted right here in Northern Ireland.

“With the rising cost of living, many more shoppers are voting with their feet and choosing to shop at Lidl and, within the Dundonald community in particular, shoppers and residents deserve equal access to our full range of products.

“Today’s announcement and our investment in realising this project over the last number of years reflects our long-term commitment to Northern Ireland and our loyal customer base in Dundonald.”

Will Lidl open more pubs across the UK?

In Northern Ireland, supermarkets face two main hurdles which pertain to the sale of alcohol.

First, they must acquire a licence that has been “surrendered” by another business, such as a pub that has closed, a system which effectively caps the total number of licensed premises.

Second, they have to satisfy what is known as the “inadequacy” test, demonstrating that the existing number of licensed outlets in the area is insufficient to meet public demand.

Lidl was unable to meet this test for a standard off-licence.

But, it did pass the test for a pub licence, because two bars near the store have shut in recent years.

These very specific local conditions mean Lidl is not about to roll out pubs across its 13,000 stores worldwide.

Would you like a Lidl pub near you? Let us know in the comments.