CEO Change at Lidl Switzerland: Nicholas Pennanen Hands Over Leadership to Michael Kunz
08.05.2026 | from Lidl Schweiz AG
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Image rights: LIDL Schweiz
08.05.2026, Weinfelden - Nicholas Pennanen, CEO of Lidl Switzerland for nearly three years, is moving to an international role at the Lidl Foundation. Under his leadership, Lidl Switzerland recorded record growth, swiftly gained market share, and strengthened local ro. In his new role as divisional executive, he will be responsible for several Lidl countries from late summer onwards. His successor will be the Swiss and current CEO of Lidl Austria, Michael Kunz.
In the past three years, Nicholas Pennanen has significantly shaped Lidl Switzerland. By launching the private label "Qualité Suisse", focusing on Swiss customer needs, and implementing a consistent expansion strategy, he and his team were able to significantly increase market share in Switzerland. This success, along with his total of 17 years of experience in Lidl countries, now leads him to an international role: In late summer 2026, Nicholas Pennanen will take on responsibility as divisional executive for several countries within Lidl.
Nicholas Pennanen draws a positive conclusion and thanks his employees: "We have made Lidl Switzerland even more successful as a team and set records together. I thank all the employees for their incredible dedication and trust. I also thank all our partners and, of course, all our customers. I look forward to the remaining time in Switzerland and my new international challenge."
Swiss Succession: Michael Kunz Returns
As Nicholas's successor, Michael Kunz, current CEO of Lidl Austria and a native Swiss, will return to his home country in autumn 2026 to take over leadership of Lidl Switzerland. Michael Kunz will be the first Swiss CEO in Lidl Switzerland's history. Michael Kunz began his Lidl career in 2011 as regional manager of Lidl Switzerland and has since held various positions. In 2024, he was promoted to CEO of Lidl Austria. His career path from regional manager to the top of the national company highlights the importance Lidl places on internal talent development.
The 41-year-old is excited about the new challenge: "Nicholas is handing me a very well-positioned team, a robust company offering me the best conditions. I am very much looking forward to returning to my home and continuing Lidl Switzerland's successful development with my colleagues."
The Lidl Switzerland team congratulates the current CEO Nicholas Pennanen on his promotion and looks forward to welcoming Michael Kunz in the autumn.
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Conclusion of this article: « CEO Change at Lidl Switzerland: Nicholas Pennanen Hands Over Leadership to Michael Kunz »
Lidl Schweiz AG
Lidl Switzerland stands for highest quality at the lowest price. As a smart discount store, we focus on essentials. Through our efficient processes and trustworthy cooperation with our partners, we guarantee an outstanding price-performance ratio and a well-thought-out range of products.
Our customers can always rely on Lidl's known quality and freshness of products. Our employees work every day to ensure a smooth shopping experience for our customers.
We are aware of our responsibility towards our employees and business partners, as well as towards the environment and society. Since 2009, we have been successfully represented in Switzerland and are a dynamic and reliable employer.
Note: The "About Us" text is taken from public sources or from the company profile on HELP.ch.
Source: Lidl Schweiz AG, Press release
Original article published on: CEO-Wechsel bei Lidl Schweiz: Nicholas Pennanen übergibt die Leitung an Michael Kunz