In an impressive move to enhance opportunities for young people entering the UK workforce, Lidl GB has launched its Retail Leadership degree apprenticeship, an initiative that promises to pay workers up to £46,000 a year while they earn a university degree. This innovative “earn while you learn” approach is designed to provide students with both academic and hands-on retail experience, setting them up for successful careers in UK retail management.
Starting with a generous £26,000 annual salary in the first year, the programme offers a structured four-year path in which participants’ wages can rise to £46,000 by the final year. On Monday, Lidl announced that from more than 5,000 applications in early careers, 51 school leavers have been selected to join the programme, highlighting the competitive nature of this opportunity.
A Partnership with Kingston University
The Retail Leadership degree apprenticeship, developed in collaboration with Kingston University, blends academic learning with practical experience in Lidl stores. The programme is structured to balance classroom-based study with real-world training, providing a strong foundation in both theory and practice. This unique format ensures that by the time participants graduate, they will be fully equipped with the skills and knowledge required to step into management roles within the retail sector.
The four-year Retail Leadership BSc (Hons) degree programme will allow students to gain valuable hands-on experience while enhancing their academic credentials. Participants will split their time between in-store work, classroom study at Kingston University, and visits to Lidl’s UK headquarters, known as Lidl House.
A Path to Retail Leadership
Graduates of the programme are expected to emerge as strong candidates for store management roles within Lidl, with a comprehensive understanding of retail operations and leadership. This scheme aligns with Lidl’s broader commitment to fostering the next generation of talent within the company. In addition to the apprenticeship programme, Lidl GB is also welcoming 50 new graduates this year through its well-established graduate scheme, further reinforcing its commitment to developing talent.
Company Pride in the Programme
Stephanie Rogers, Chief Human Resources Officer at Lidl GB, expressed her excitement about the scheme’s success and its future potential. “I’m thrilled to welcome over 100 talented individuals to Lidl GB through these programmes. Our partnership with Kingston University for the Retail Leadership apprenticeship is a significant milestone, and it’s exciting to see it come to life in our 30th year of operating in Great Britain,” Rogers said.
As the programme gains momentum, it sets a new standard in providing young workers with an opportunity to advance their careers in a highly competitive industry, offering not only financial benefits but also a clear path to leadership.
The Workers Union Says…
“This brilliant initiative by Lidl GB highlights the growing trend of companies investing in future talent, allowing workers to develop their careers while earning a respectable wage. It showcases a progressive approach to employment, offering practical training and academic development, which can be key to long-term career success. For many young workers, the opportunity to learn, earn, and grow within a single company will be an appealing prospect.”
