Lidl opens its first ever pub after successfully arguing there were not enough bars in Belfast suburb

(Left to right) Regional manager Gordon Cruikshanks and bar manager Samantha Hill outside Lidl's pub, The Middle Ale, in Dundonald, Belfast. Photo: Lidl/PA

Supermarket chain Lidl has opened the doors to its first ever pub — in Belfast. The Middle Ale bar and off-licence is adjacent to an existing Lidl store in Dundonald.

The venture represents Lidl’s novel way of ensuring compliance with the North's strict and complex licensing laws.

The distribution of liquor licences are tightly controlled in the region and can only be obtained by purchasing them from businesses that are closing or no longer intend to sell alcohol. Applicants must also prove there is an “inadequacy” of provision in the area.

Having been unable to prove there was an inadequate number of off-licences in the Dundonald area, Lidl pivoted its strategy and applied for a pub licence instead, arguing there were not enough bars in the area.

After a protracted process, which involved seeing off a legal challenge in court, the chain succeeded in securing a licence to sell alcohol in a pub, with an attached off-sales section.

The pub's wine list has been chosen by Lidl's master of wine Richard Bampfield, and the spirits and liqueurs include Lidl's own-brand Dundalgan whiskey and Wild Burrow Gin. Photo: Lidl/PA

The 60-seat pub’s Middle Ale name is a nod to Lidl’s famous Middle Aisle of discounted supermarket items. It is accessed through a separate entrance to the retail store and its opening has created eight new jobs.

Gordon Cruikshanks, regional managing director for Lidl Northern Ireland, said it was a “milestone” moment for the company.

“Today marks an important milestone as we open our first ever public house and begin welcoming customers to The Middle Ale,” he said.

“We’re thrilled to finally bring the Dundonald community access to our full range of high-quality, premium beers, wines and spirits for the first time in more than two decades.

“We recognise that there has been a great deal of local interest and anticipation around this project, which is why we have taken a measured and responsible approach to its opening, ensuring it complements the local area and provides a high-quality hospitality experience for existing Lidl customers, visitors and residents alike.

“The feedback from customers so far has been extremely positive and we’re thrilled to toast the Dundonald community today and celebrate bringing our full range to local shoppers, as well as a much-needed community space to serve the thriving town.”