Discount supermarket chain Lidl has set its sights on Shepton Mallet as it looks to open hundreds of new stores across the UK — and members of the public could earn a cash reward for helping to find the right spot.

Lidl, which already has around 950 stores across the country, has announced plans to grow its portfolio to 1,100 stores by the end of 2025. As part of that expansion, Shepton Mallet has been named on its latest list of target locations.

The supermarket giant is offering a finder's fee for anyone who can help identify suitable sites. A fee of 1.5% of the total freehold purchase price, or 10% of the first year's rent for leasehold opportunities, is up for grabs for successful leads.

The company is searching for:

• Prominent locations with strong pedestrian or traffic flow
• Freehold, leasehold or long leasehold opportunities
• Units between 18,000 and 26,500 square feet with 100+ car parking spaces
• 1.5 acres for standalone stores or up to 4 acres for mixed-use schemes
• Town centre, edge of centre or retail park locations

Ryan McDonnell, Lidl GB Chief Executive, said: "The last few years have been challenging for everyone, but we've made it clear that we're more committed than ever to ensuring that every single household has access to a Lidl store. That's why our focus is firmly on the future as we continue to grow and invest in our infrastructure, while keeping a lookout for more sites and locations across the country."

Richard Taylor, Lidl GB Chief Development Officer, added: "Our store expansion has been and continues to be unparalleled. In the last three months alone, we've opened 15 new stores – more than any other retailer, and in 2022 we welcomed customers through the doors of over 50 new stores. But we won't be stopping there. Our vision is to have over 1,100 stores in the future, but really there's no ceiling on our ambition or growth potential. What's important is that we take a strategic and sustainable approach to getting there."

Anyone who knows of a potential site in Shepton Mallet that matches Lidl's requirements is encouraged to get in touch with the supermarket's property team.

More information on the scheme and how to contact Lidl can be found at www.lidl.co.uk/about-us/property.