লidl opened this summer an in-house pub called the Middle Ale in Belfast’s eastern suburbs to circumvent Northern Ireland’s strict liquor licensing laws. The bar, located in the store’s center aisle, features shopping cart seating and serves Lidl-branded snacks and takeaway drinks. It quickly drew crowds, leading to at least one fight requiring police intervention and the employment of bouncers.

Northern Ireland’s liquor laws, rooted in historical religious divides, remain tightly regulated, allowing licenses only for businesses closing or demonstrating underserved markets. Lidl failed to obtain a standard alcohol license and instead secured a pub license. The novelty has sparked debate over loosening regulations, with artists and DJs arguing the current laws stifle nightlife, while existing pub owners fear devaluation of their costly licenses, which can exceed £120,000.

Groups like Free the Night are challenging the government in court to reform licensing and support Belfast’s music scene.