Lidl GB has launched its inaugural Retail Leadership degree apprenticeship scheme in partnership with Kingston University, with new starters set to earn up to £46,000 by their fourth year.
The 51 apprentices have joined the scheme after it received over 5,000 applications from school leavers eager to pursue a career in the retail sector. The new scheme is developed in collaboration with Kingston University, which is in the same borough as Lidl’s Head Office, Lidl House.
The Retail Leadership BSc (Hons) apprenticeship scheme is a four-year programme designed to combine academic study with practical retail experience. Starting out on almost £26,000, they will spend time gaining hands-on experience in-store, with regular visits to both Kingston University and Lidl House to develop their understanding of the retail industry.
Apprentices can expect to graduate not only with a degree but also with the skills and experience needed to step into store management roles within four years.
In addition to the apprenticeship programme, Lidl has welcomed 50 new graduates through its annual graduate scheme. After an extensive onboarding process, which includes an introduction to Lidl’s core values, a tour of Lidl House, and networking opportunities with senior leaders, the graduates will embark on a rotation across HR, warehouse, store and supply chain roles.
Stephanie Rogers, chief human resources officer at Lidl GB, commented: “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. Equally, our Graduate Scheme continues to attract bright minds eager to start their careers in this dynamic industry. We are committed to investing in the next generation of retail leaders and look forward to supporting them as they grow with us.”
Head of Kingston Business School, Professor Sankar Sivarajah, said: “Our partnership with Lidl on the Retail Leadership Degree Apprenticeship demonstrates Kingston Business School is working on real-world business requirements, which will have an immediate impact on the students’ career paths and in turn the UK economy. There is a real need for skills development, with challenges for industries to overcome and this approach to knowledge partnerships bridges that gap. The apprenticeship will equip students with the competencies and skills they need for the future, such as digital insights into retail marketing or gaining the financial competencies, to be a well-rounded manager working within a large organisation.”
This partnership reflects Lidl’s ongoing investment in its people, setting a strong foundation for the future of retail leadership. It follows the discounter’s third pay rise for hourly-paid colleagues in the space of 12 months, offering industry leading hourly rate of £12.40 outside M25 and £13.65 inside.
