A major retailer's operations in the Fermanagh and Omagh district have contributed £54m to the local economy in 2023.

The findings were published in a report by Oxford Economics and Lidl Northern Ireland to examine the retailer’s growing impact.

Lidl's total contribution to the region stood at £360 million, demonstrating the retailer's value to the local economy since opening its first store in May 1999 in Cookstown, Co Tyrone.

The report also states that Lidl procured £120m of goods and services in the district, providing a boost to local suppliers' exports.

In light of this, Lidl announced a further investment of £150 million for store expansion across new towns and cities within Northern Ireland and upgrades over the next three years.

It has construction plans for a new flagship store at Boucher Road, the first in South Belfast, as well as a newly developed retail park at Carryduff.

Plans have also been submitted to develop new stores at Bangor, Dungannon, Craigavon, and Coleraine.

Neil McCullough, the report’s author and associate director of Oxford Economics, said: "It’s clear to see that Lidl Northern Ireland’s proposition resonates locally and its remarkable growth will solidify its position as a leading local retailer for many years to come.”

J.P. Scally, chief executive officer of Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland, said: "As we mark 25 years of Lidl Northern Ireland, we’re proud to share the findings of this latest economic impact report which not only affirms our position as a leading retailer and employer, but which cements our commitment to delivering for everyone in the region.

"Today, we can clearly see the fruits of our labour and I’m very proud of the significant impacts we have delivered for the wider Northern Ireland economy and, importantly, our customers who continue to vote with their feet and choose Lidl Northern Ireland."

Moreover, the retailer directly employed almost 1,300 people in 2023, marking a 50 percent increase over the past five years.

The company also contributed to the agri-food industry, procuring £498 million across Northern Ireland, a 36 percent rise since 2018.

Ivan Ryan, regional managing director of Lidl Northern Ireland, said: "Lidl has come a long way since our first outlet in Northern Ireland opened in 1999.

"As we look to the next 25 years, we’re delighted to announce a new investment of £150 million into further expanding our presence in the region, creating employment, boosting the economy and opening up access to our quality products at low prices for even more shoppers across the region."