Stories

Wed, 17 Jun 2026

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 'It's a unique scenario' - Inside Lidl's first ever pub

The supermarket chain Lidl owns and operates The Middle Ale, a 'world first' for the brand.
A supermarket chain, Lidl, has opened a pub called "The Middle Ale" in Northern Ireland, marking a first for the brand. The venture is not just a gimmick but a statement about the region's licensing laws. To sell alcohol, supermarkets must buy a surrendered license and prove there are inadequate existing licensed premises in an area. Lidl was unable to pass this test for an off-licence, but managed to do so for a pub after two local bars closed. The company spent £500,000 on the pub and hired eight additional staff members. The pub's owner says it is not a stunt, but rather a unique solution to provide the community with its full range of products. Residents welcome the new pub, citing a need in the area for social spaces. However, some question whether this will lead to more supermarkets opening pubs in an attempt to bypass licensing laws. Local politicians have mixed opinions on the matter, with some praising the potential benefits and others expressing concerns about respecting nearby residents and infrastructure.