Budget supermarket chain Lidl could be about to shake up the UK mobile phone market and provide more choice for consumers. The firm already offers smartphone SIM plans in areas such Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Now it seems it’s ready to launch this connectivity in more areas of the world. According to the FT, Lidl is expected to expand its mobile service to a further 30 countries, including the UK, US, France and Spain.

As long as customers have a Lidl Plus card, they will be able to sign up and get cheaper access to data, calls and texts.

Like some other providers, such as Tesco and Lebara, Lidl won’t build its own network or erect 5G masts to serve its customers. Instead, it will be a so-called Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) and lease capacity from main infrastructure providers such as EE, O2, Three, or Vodafone.

According to the FT, Lidl owner Schwarz Group has already signed an agreement with 1GLOBAL – a major worldwide mobile communications provider.

There’s no word on when a launch will take place, but it would give iPhone and Android users even more choice when choosing a SIM for their devices. With bills going up this month, more choice and lower prices will surely be welcomed by those trying to save money on their monthly outgoings.

“For UK consumers, this could be good news,” analyst Paolo Pescatore told Express.co.uk.

“More choice. Lower prices. No-fuss SIM-only deals. And potentially another way to save money at a time when households are watching every bill. For Lidl, the challenge will be standing out in a crowded, price-led market and convincing customers to switch from established providers.

“Its biggest advantage is Lidl Plus, store footfall and trusted value positioning. But cheap data alone will not be enough. Mobile is not groceries. Winning customers will take more than a low price.

“The bigger point is that mobile is becoming another everyday utility. Lidl’s pitch could be: milk, bread, data. It shows how the battle for mobile customers is moving beyond telcos and into supermarkets, apps and loyalty schemes.”