German discounter Lidl has bought 11 shop sites to add to its list of properties in Estonia. However, Lidl has not yet build on the sites and the acquired buildings are still vacant, according to the local business daily Aripaev, pending the release of required building permits.

Lidl Eesti currently owns 28 properties in Estonia but reports said the retailer has yet to come up with the required building permits before it can fully push through with its expansion. The German discounter has already informed local authorities that it will boost investments by expanding its store network in the country. But acquiring the required building permits has snagged Lidl’s strategic push. Obtaining building permits could throw a monkey wrench to Lidl’s expansion plans since much of the land it bought is reportedly zoned as residential land. Changes in local rules or favourable decisions from authorities are needed for the properties to be re-zoned as business land.