Discounter Lidl GB launches new stores and warehouses scheme for Brits out of work for six months
Lidl GB has announced a new recruitment initiative, aimed at tackling rising unemployment by ringfencing 10% of interviews for people who have been out of work for at least six months for roles across its operations. This will cover entry level roles at every new store over the next 12 months alongside at least 480 interview slots across its 13 warehouses.
The retailer is working in partnership with local employability partners including the prime providers of the RESTART scheme and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) who will identify and support candidates with interview tips and best practice guidance.
Stephanie Rogers, Chief People Officer at Lidl GB, says: "Unemployment is affecting communities right across the country, adding to the pressures many households are already under. For people who are facing barriers into employment, getting that first opportunity can be the hardest step. That’s why we’re fast tracking interviews across the nation to help people get a foot in the door. A career in retail develops a massive range of transferable skills and, here at Lidl, we pair that with industry leading training and competitive pay to ensure our people can truly thrive.”
The Minister for Employment, Dame Diana Johnson, says: “Our mission is to Get Britain Working and that means reaching people across the UK - including those who have been overlooked for too long - to build meaningful careers. That's why Lidl’s new programme is so vital - it’s moving people from welfare to work, providing those who have been out of work with a pathway back into employment. By joining forces, we are helping people to kickstart rewarding careers in the retail sector as we continue to drive our economy forward.”
Lidl GB has also announced a £50,000 donation to Standing Tall to support those who are homeless into work. After a trial with the charity last year in the Runcorn area, it has extended its support to multiple regions with the aim of getting more people off the streets and into employment in its stores over the next 12 months.
2026 RTIH Innovation Awards
Physical stores will be a key focus area at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards.
The awards are now open for entries and celebrate global retail technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.
Our winners will be revealed at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London on Wednesday, 4th November.
Check out our 2025 winners here.
Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”
“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”
He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”
Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.
