Lidl, a major food market with hundreds of stores in Europe, and 10,000 worldwide, has plans for a store in Whitehall Township. This would be Lidl’s first full-service store in the United States.

The township planning commission was given an overview Nov. 17 of Lidl’s plans to erect a market off Eberhart Road at Seventh Street.

Lidl presently is in talks with Gilboy Ford, owner of the vacant tract. There has been a “for sale” sign on the 19.2-acre property for an extended period of time. Lidl is expected to build a market on 4.5 acres.

Michael McGrath, one of three individuals representing Lidl at the township meeting, said the company will “roll out” its expansion into the United States but had no time frame for a more formal announcement.

The market proposed for Eberhart Road is 36,000 square feet. The exterior of Lidl is said to have a retro, 1950s-style feel.

The property is in a C-2 commercial zoned district. It would have 150 parking spaces, more than the required 115 spaces.

The planning commission said the market would deal with local produce growers.

Lidl could provide an international flavor on its shelves and throughout the market, said one meeting attendee.