The entry of Lidl into the North American market has been characterized by false starts. Growth has proceeded at a far lower rate than established competitor Aldi.  Lidl entered the U.S. in 2017 and has concentrated on the high-density Eastern seaboard.  Lidl recently opened two stores in Washington, DC. and Greensboro, NC. but will close five units among NC, SC, VA, and NJ.

Lidl intends to erect a large store in Brooklyn, NY. and will establish a distribution center near Philadelphia.  Lidl currently operates 200 stores in the U.S. compared 2,400 for Aldi by the end of 2023 and with 120 stores added this year.