German retail giant LIDL to invest €105M in Albania logistics hub, eyes national supermarket rollout
LIDL will invest €105 million in Albania to build a large-scale logistics center in Porto Romano, marking a significant step forward in the country’s retail and supply chain infrastructure.
Why is this important: This is one of the largest foreign investments in Albania’s logistics and retail sector. The project is expected to create around 2,500 jobs and will serve as a base for future supermarket operations across the country, strengthening Albania’s supply chain and integrating local producers into a modern distribution network.
Context: The Investment Committee has granted LIDL the status of “Strategic Investor,” approving a long-term lease for 200,000 square meters of land in the Porto Romano area. The site will host LIDL’s logistics hub, the main facility for storing and distributing wholesale goods across Albania and potentially the wider region.
The facility aims to improve the storage, handling, and distribution of goods—both imported and domestically produced—supporting not only local supply but also export promotion for Albanian products.
According to the official decision, LIDL’s investment meets the employment benchmarks defined by the Strategic Investment Law. The government has approved a special 3-year status for the project, which includes facilitation of land expropriation by the Durrës Port Authority in coordination with relevant institutions.
What else: Beyond the logistics hub, LIDL is planning to enter Albania’s retail market by establishing a network of supermarkets throughout the country. Its entry is expected to increase competition, lower consumer prices, and push forward retail standards in terms of service, product variety, and quality.
The company’s presence is also expected to bring more opportunities for Albanian farmers and food producers to integrate into a broader European retail supply chain.
What’s next: Construction is expected to begin within the 3 year window. The government’s decision aligns with broader goals of attracting high-impact investors to improve infrastructure, employment, and exports.
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