Exclusive: Lidl is ‘preferred bidder’ for Lang Stracht site as replacement Aberdeen supermarket steps forward

The supermarket chain now looks poised to remain in Mastrick after having to leave their long-standing home there.

By Isaac Buchan

May 8 2025, 1:03 pm

Lidl have taken a huge step in their plan to move next door. Image: Kenny Elrick/DC Thomson

Lidl looks set to remain in Mastrick as a deal for the sale of a vacant Lang Stracht site is poised to be sealed.

The German supermarket and the council have been locked in crunch talks for almost 10 months – with Lidl bosses desperate to stay in the area when they close their branch there later this year.

Secret talks were held over the sale at a council finance meeting yesterday.

And now, we can reveal that Lidl has been announced as the preferred bidder for the demolished site next door – once occupied by the Aberdeen Journals offices.

Lidl had previously asked locals for their support in their bid to stay in the area. Image: Kenny Elrick/DC Thomson

Why does Lidl need to move?

Lidl has been “unable to renew” the lease on its current store at Lang Stracht, which is Aberdeen’s oldest branch.

Previous attempts to purchase the land next door haven’t panned out.

But this latest bid seems to be coming to fruition.

Lidl have been looking to move into the site for almost six years. Image: Kenny Elrick/DC Thomson

Jackie Dunbar, the SNP MSP for Aberdeen Donside, today said locals worried about losing their Lidl would breathe a sigh of relief.

She added: “It is positive news that Aberdeen City Council have agreed Lidl as the preferred bidder for the Lang Stracht site.

“I know the community were keen to see Lidl remain on the Lang Stracht so this is a real positive for the area.”

Are you excited for Lidl to stay on Lang Stracht? Let us know in our comments section below

When will Lidl move into new store?

Ccouncillors finally agreed to move forward with the sale of the land to the German supermarket behind closed doors during Wednesday’s meeting.

This means that construction on a new Lang Stracht Lidl store could start this year – with the former P&J offices having been flattened a few years ago.