Lidl bosses have published their annual list of areas across Scotland where it is interested in acquiring sites for potential store development and they've got several planned for Ayrshire.

The budget supermarket chain is looking at erecting sites in Cumnock, Irvine, Kilmarnock and Largs, alongside a second in Ayr.

It comes just a week after rival supermarket chain Aldi announced that they were also looking at sites for a news store in Ayr south.

Read more: Aldi searching for new store location in south of Ayr

They aim to have 1,000 stores throughout the UK by the end of 2023.

They're looking for landholder and freeholders with suitable sites in these locations to get in touch.

They want prominent sites, which are easily accessible, and have a strong pedestrian or traffic flow. They say they are also interested in mixed-use sites. 

The new stores will include solar panels on the exterior to provide renewable energy for the site, and will have electric vehicle charging points. 

Each new store will also become part of Lidl’s food redistribution programme Feed It Back, which sees surplus food donated to those within local communities that need it the most, via food banks or partner charities.

Ross Millar, Lidl’s Regional Director for Scotland, said: “We want to continue to reach more shoppers across Scotland and our site requirements brochure is a testament of that. 

“There are towns that will be new for Lidl and in some places, the potential to even double our sites. Each new store will have quality food and drink at great prices including produce from over 60 Scottish suppliers. 

“We look forward to opening new stores in the coming months and years and becoming part of local communities.”