Retail expansion in Northern Slovakia: Lidl plans fourth store, Biedronka to enter the region

Retail competition is intensifying in northern Slovakia’s Kysuce region, with new stores planned in Čadca, Krásno nad Kysucou, and Čierne. These two towns and a village are set to see significant retail developments as chains like Lidl and Biedronka expand their reach.

Lidl is preparing to open its fourth store in the region, located in Krásno nad Kysucou. The planned site lies between the main road to Žilina and the so-called old road, directly opposite Komad. The German discount retailer is continuing its aggressive expansion to cater to growing demand in the area.

Polish retail giant Biedronka is set to establish its first store in Slovakia, choosing the village of Čierne as its entry point. The store will be built opposite the collection yard, on land owned by Milan Jurga, who confirmed the construction plans.

Čierne, situated near the borders of the Czech Republic and Poland, is a popular shopping destination for residents of neighboring countries. With existing Biedronka stores just over the border in Istebná and Milówka, the chain is already well-known and favored by locals in the border villages.

In Čadca, discussions are ongoing regarding a new store in the Družba department store building. Daniel Jurčaga, the director of the building, has been in talks with several food chains about opening the first 24/7 grocery store in the Kysuce region. However, the specific chain involved has not yet been disclosed.

While the arrival of Biedronka is anticipated to bring convenience and economic activity, it has also sparked local opposition. The Čierne municipal authority has been handling a petition against the store’s construction since last year.

Residents near the proposed site have raised concerns about potential noise, dust, odors, and clutter, citing the area’s already high concentration of businesses and the presence of a collection yard. The petition outlines additional worries, including increased truck traffic, flooding risks, and the negative aesthetic impact on the village.

“Business activities in the middle of the village cause excessive noise, dust, smells, clutter, rat breeding, and flooding. They increase traffic frequency, including truck traffic, and harm the site’s aesthetic value,” the petitioners wrote.

As retail chains like Lidl and Biedronka continue to expand in northern Slovakia, their impact on local communities remains a topic of both excitement and debate. While new stores promise economic benefits and convenience, they also raise questions about balancing development with the needs and concerns of residents.

Source: SME