Nicholas Pennanen, who served as CEO for nearly three years, taking on responsibility for multiple Lidl country operations as a divisional board member. He will be succeeded by Michael Kunz, currently CEO of Lidl Austria and a Swiss national, who will assume leadership in fall 2026.
During Pennanen’s tenure, Lidl Switzerland posted record growth, gained market share at pace and strengthened its local relevance. Key initiatives included the launch of the “Qualité Suisse” private label and a focused expansion strategy tailored to Swiss consumer needs. The promotion reflects both that track record and his 17 years of experience across Lidl markets.
“We have made Lidl Switzerland even more successful as a team and set records together. I want to thank all employees for their incredible commitment and trust, as well as our partners and customers. I am looking forward to my remaining time in Switzerland and to my new challenge at the international level.”
Nicholas Pennanen, CEO of Lidl Switzerland
A Swiss First
Kunz will be the first Swiss national to lead Lidl Switzerland in the company’s history in the country. He began his Lidl career in 2011 as a regional manager at Lidl Switzerland before moving through a series of roles and being appointed CEO of Lidl Austria in 2024. His trajectory from regional operations to country CEO is consistent with Lidl’s emphasis on internal talent development.
The 41-year-old said he is looking forward to returning home: “Nicholas is handing over to me a very well-positioned team and a fundamentally sound company, which gives me the best possible foundation. I am very much looking forward to returning to my home country and continuing the successful development of Lidl Switzerland together with my colleagues.”
(dp)
