the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Hawthorne NJ, residents eagerly anticipating the arrival of Lidl, the popular German discount grocery chain, will be disappointed to learn that the retailer has canceled its plans to build a new supermarket on Wagaraw Road.
The project, originally approved by the Hawthorne Planning Board in October 2021, would have marked a significant milestone for the borough, introducing its first retail grocery store since the Grand Union on Lafayette Avenue closed more than 40 years ago.
Mayor Confirms Lidl’s Withdrawal
Hawthorne Mayor John Lane announced Lidl’s decision during his “state of the borough” address at the Borough Council reorganization meeting.
“Many of you inquired about the Lidl store status,” Lane said. “It pulled the plan to build a store in the borough, and it also stopped construction in several other states.”
The decision leaves the borough without a major supermarket, despite strong interest from residents and local officials.
Details of the Proposed Site
The planned Lidl store was set to occupy a 31,042-square-foot space at 2 Wagaraw Road, a prime location at a busy four-way intersection near the Prospect Park border.
The 4-acre property, owned by Shotmeyer Bros. Heating & Air Conditioning, includes a former Lukoil gas station and mini-mart. The site is now listed for lease through Ripco Real Estate of Elmwood Park, making it available for other potential developments.
Lidl’s U.S. Expansion Pauses
Lidl, headquartered in Virginia, has been expanding aggressively across the East Coast and currently operates 23 stores in New Jersey, with the closest location to Hawthorne on Broadway in Elmwood Park.
Despite its success, Lidl has paused construction on several projects in other states. The chain, known for its affordability and streamlined shopping experience, is a major competitor of Aldi, another German retailer growing rapidly in the U.S.
Impact on the Community
Mayor Lane expressed disappointment over Lidl’s decision, emphasizing the missed opportunity for both residents and the borough.
“It’s a loss for us,” Lane said. “I think that would’ve been a big hit with our residents — and maybe, residents from other communities.”
Lane added that he is actively seeking other grocery chains to consider opening a store in Hawthorne to fill the void left by Lidl’s withdrawal.
The Future of the Site
With its strategic location and high visibility, the Wagaraw Road site remains a valuable asset for potential development. Local officials are optimistic about attracting new businesses to the area, ensuring that the needs of Hawthorne’s residents are met.
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Too close to Paterson, where shopping is sometimes free.
my thoughts exactly !!!
Lidl already in Elmwood Park and just opened another in Paramus. Hawthorne not necessary.
Forty years is a long time between grocery runs.