# Lidl operations and partnerships in North Macedonia > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/lidl-operations-and-partnerships-in-north-macedonia > Updated: 2026-08-27T11:21:03.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 2. Lidl is expanding its operations and influence in North Macedonia through workforce growth and strategic manufacturing partnerships. In early August, the retailer increased its logistics workforce in Kumanovo by hiring 17 new employees as part of an ongoing national recruitment drive. Human-resources director Teodora Hadži-Dimova-Tanaskoska stated that the company aims to build a “stable, professional and dedicated team” to support its more than 400 staff nationwide. By late August, the company’s impact extended to local industry through partnerships with Macedonian manufacturers. Companies such as Bestfood TI and Mlekarnica Gjorgjiev are producing goods for Lidl’s private label brands, including Freshona and Pilos. These collaborations have enabled local products to reach markets in Bulgaria, Slovenia, Serbia, and Croatia. Stefan Georgiev, Commercial Director at Lidl North Macedonia, noted that while meeting the required standards for quality and safety necessitates investment, it helps local companies become more competitive within the broader European market. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-27: Lidl partnerships drive growth for Macedonian manufacturers Macedonian producers like Bestfood TI and Mlekarnica Gjorgjiev are using Lidl partnerships to meet high quality standards and expand their exports into various European markets. 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lidl-partnerships-drive-growth-for-macedonian-manufacturers ### 2026-08-07: Lidl expands workforce with 17 new hires at Kumanovo logistics centre Lidl hired 17 new staff in early August for its Kumanovo logistics centre in North Macedonia, part of ongoing recruitment; training lasts 6‑8 weeks, HR director Teodora Hadži‑Dimova‑Tanaskoska highlighted the “ 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lidl-expands-workforce-with-17-new-hires-at-kumanovo-logistics-centre --- Cite as: Lidl operations and partnerships in North Macedonia. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/lidl-operations-and-partnerships-in-north-macedonia