Food Lion Invests $484 Million To Remodel 153 Charlotte Stores
The makeovers bring more locally grown produce, refrigeration systems that use less energy, and new self-checkout lanes.
Food Lion has poured $484 million into fixing up 153 stores throughout the greater Charlotte market area. The makeovers bring more locally grown produce, refrigeration systems that use less energy, and new self-checkout lanes.
The updated locations stretch across multiple towns and cities in North and South Carolina.
"Charlotte is a special market for us because it's our hometown," said Greg Finchum, president of Food Lion, per The Packer. "Every enhancement is designed to meet our customers' evolving needs — whenever, wherever and however they shop with us."
The Salisbury-based grocer started back in 1957. Since 2024, the company has given away nearly 13 million pounds of food to area food banks across the Charlotte region.
Shoppers will discover up to 25 to 30 seasonal produce items from nearby growers through the Local Goodness program. Fall selections include potatoes, cooking greens, specialty squash, muscadine grapes, honey produced nearby, and fresh seasonal apples.
"Customers will enjoy an expanded assortment of fresh, locally sourced fruits and vegetables through Food Lion's Local Goodness program, which could feature up to 25 to 30 seasonal produce items from regional growers and producers," said Chris Dove, vice president of produce category and merchandising for Food Lion, according to The Packer.
The makeovers bring updated refrigerated cases with energy-efficient doors. Some locations will get CO₂ systems to shrink the company's carbon footprint while keeping food fresh.
The retailer works hand-in-hand with farmers throughout North and South Carolina through its Local Goodness initiative. This program puts money into infrastructure and training that make regional food systems stronger.
"By deepening partnerships with local farmers, improving infrastructure and expanding programs like food rescue, Food Lion continues to reduce waste while supporting local economies and providing fresh, responsibly sourced food to the towns and cities we serve," Dove said.
The chain became the first grocery retailer in the country to start a food rescue program with Feeding America. Every store donates unsaleable but edible food to local feeding agencies. Since 2024, nearly 13 million pounds have gone to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina.
The remodeled stores sell hand-battered fried chicken, fresh & simple branded meals, and ready-to-eat options. Customers can pick between checkout with a cashier or self-checkout lanes based on what shoppers and associates asked for.
