The new Lidl in University City | Photo: Lidl

Sept. 27. By Dave Yochum. Lidl’s journey in the US apparently no longer includes Cornelius. The developer of Alexander Farms confirmed yesterday that the German grocer will no longer anchor the retail segment of the 55-acre mixed-use project at Westmoreland and West Catawba.

Lidl did not respond for comment.

With inflation a factor across demographics, shoppers are searching for more affordable grocery options so it’s unclear why Lidl will bypass 28031 where arch-rival Aldi has also opened a limited selection discount store.

McInerney

“We fully intend to pursue and secure a new grocer anchor. Hopefully, something even better as this community deserves the best,” said Jesse McInerney, a principal at Win Development, the developer of Alexander Farms.

There was no confirmation whether Trader Joe’s is among the prospects.

Lidl was to go in a dedicated 29,000 square-foot building that will back up to West Catawba, with the entry facing a plaza and parking on the eastern side.

—A source in commercial development said retail, including restaurants, was struggling.

Tenant house

The historic tenant house will be placed on a foundation closer to the intersection of Westmoreland and West Catawba and restored.

“We remain committed to the restoration of the tenant house and hope to see that happening soon,” McInerney said.

Single-family homes

The River Rock single-family homes are under construction on the northern side of the project and roads are going in.

Build-out value of Alexander Farms is in excess of $110 million.