ALDI is bringing another jobs boost to the area after it announced plans for a major distribution centre in Sawley.
The supermarket chain said the 600,000 sq ft centre on land at Sawley Crossroads would provide 400 new posts and serve Aldi's existing and planned new stores throughout the Midlands.
Work will begin next year, subject to planning approval.
A spokesman from the budget retailer said discussions with the site's owners, Wilson Bowden Developments Limited, have been concluded and a planning application is set to be submitted early in 2015.
He added: "This is major investment for Aldi. The distribution requirements of the business need to keep pace with the growth of our retail outlets, and we therefore have an urgent need to deliver a new centre to serve our Midlands region.
"The site at Sawley is ideally placed to do this. We have been in talks with North West Leicestershire District Council to ensure that the scheme is deliverable, and we are hopeful that planning will be approved and we can be on-site during 2015."
The spokesman also hinted at more new stores, saying: "The Sawley site also provides a future expansion opportunity for the business and this too will be covered by the forthcoming planning application.
"This is a key site in our growth plans and will also be a major boost to the local economy."
The Aldi supermarket chain has achieved significant growth in the UK recent years and its ongoing expansion plans were announced last month when prime minister David Cameron visited the company's HQ in Atherstone.
Councillor Richard Blunt, leader of North West Leicestershire District Council, said it was great news for the East Midlands.
"The possibility of Aldi bringing at least 400 new jobs to our district is very promising.
"The ambition to drive prosperity for our communities is at the heart of the council, and we work hard to encourage new business and business in our district, so we are pleased that Aldi has recognised the benefits of locating in North West Leicestershire.
"The site at Sawley is ideally placed on the main road network and already has a history of mineral extraction and other development.
"As such, this site makes a suitable location to meet the immediate and future distribution needs of Aldi's growing, as well as providing significant new jobs and investment for the residents of the area.
"We welcome Aldi's interest and will be working with the company to secure this important scheme for the district."
