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The line wrapped around the new Lidl grocery store location in Center Moriches at 7:20 a.m. with over 200 people waiting to enter the German-based grocery store. Employees supplied hot cocoa, blankets and treats to the guests waiting for the grand opening. There was also live music to keep the customers entertained.
“The cold certainly didn’t slow down the event,” said Lidl spokesperson, Katie DuRant.
The first 200 customers in line received gift cards ranging from $5 to $250.
One of those customers began waiting outside the store at 1:00 a.m. this morning.
Jonathan Berdinka, an assistant scout master for the local Boy Scout troop, waited outside the store to win the $250 gift card for being first on line so he could donate half to the local food pantry.
“With the holidays coming up, it’s important to give back,”said Berdinka. “Even in Long Island people are in tough situations and so I thought it’d be a good way to give back.”
Berdinka posted about his goal on social media and people came to bring him hot cocoa and tea during the night. He also received enough donations from visitors to fill up the back of his car.
At 7:40 a.m., Lidl employees started the grand opening, which even a dance routine in front of the store. Shoppers were free to roam around the spacious store at 8:00 a.m. when the doors officially opened.
Lidl hosted a simultaneous grand opening for the West Babylon location. The stores are the first two opened so far on Long Island. The Shirley location is expected to open in 2020.
The grocery chain features an assortment of grocery items from eggs to their new deli. Fresh baked goods are baked every day from the Lidl bakery and fruits and vegetables are delivered daily to ensure quality.
Here are some photos from the opening:
