Hundreds show up for grand opening of Wilmington’s first Lidl

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A German grocery store chain has officially opened its doors in Wilmington.

Port City residents lined up around the building Wednesday morning, eagerly anticipating the ribbon cutting.

It’s a wait that took a little longer than expected. Doors were supposed to open at 7:40 a.m., but an inactive traffic light delayed the opening.

This didn’t stop any of the excitement throughout the crowd. They played games, danced, and were encouraged to download the Lidl app.

Tamara Agnelli was the first person in line and won a $100 gift card.

“I wanted to get here early, 5 o’clock. My son was like ‘Ma, you going to be safe?’ and I was like, ‘Yea, I’m going to be safe,’ because he was worried I’d get here so early, but I wanted to get to the grand opening, cause it’s exciting,” Agnelli said.

She says she is excited to spend her gift card on stocking stuffers and a pastry from the bakery.

The grocery store is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily  and is located at 1451 Eastwood Road.

This is the 20th Lidl to open in North Carolina and the 79th location in the United States.

Another Lidl is expected to open at the Independence Mall.