Food Lion: A Legacy Born in Salisbury, North Carolina
In 1957, three visionaries—Ralph Ketner, Brown Ketner, and Wilson Smith—founded what was then called Food Town in Salisbury, North Carolina. With a modest capital investment and a strong desire to provide their neighbors with affordable groceries, they opened the first store in the Ketner Center. This small, single-store operation laid the foundation for what would become a grocery giant. Today, over 65 years later, Food Lion operates more than 1,100 stores across 10 states, and its headquarters still proudly remain in Salisbury, NC.
The “Lowest Food Prices in North Carolina” Gamble
The growth of Food Lion was propelled by Ralph Ketner’s bold cost-cutting strategy, known as the “Lowest Food Prices in North Carolina” (LFPINC) concept, introduced in 1968. This strategy, which drastically lowered prices across all items, was a risky move, but it proved highly successful. Sales soared by 80% that year, and Food Lion soon became a regional leader in the grocery industry. This innovative approach continues to define Food Lion’s mission of providing easy, fresh, and affordable groceries to its customers.
Ahold Delhaize and Food Lion’s Place in ADUSA
Food Lion is now part of Ahold Delhaize USA (ADUSA), the U.S. division of the global grocery leader Ahold Delhaize, headquartered in the Netherlands. Ahold Delhaize acquired Food Lion in 1974, which helped accelerate the chain’s growth. As part of the ADUSA network, Food Lion has access to significant resources and innovative strategies that keep it competitive in today’s market. ADUSA, which also includes brands like Stop & Shop, Hannaford, and Giant, leverages scale and expertise to support Food Lion’s continued success in the grocery industry.
Food Lion Feeds: A Commitment to Community
From the very beginning, Food Lion has been more than just a grocery store—it’s been a vital part of the communities it serves. Food Lion Feeds, launched in 2014, is the company’s initiative to fight food insecurity in the region. To date, the program has donated over 280,000 pounds of food and water to community partners, helping nourish those in need. This accounts for 500 million meals with the goal of one billion.
The company is also playing a critical role in responding to Hurricane Helene, donating $1.5 million to support rebuilding efforts and providing emergency food and supplies to affected communities.
Food Lion’s commitment to giving back goes well beyond disaster relief. The company has been a longstanding supporter of various charities and organizations, including the Children’s Miracle Network, America’s Second Harvest Food Banks, and local schools near its stores. By working closely with these community partners, Food Lion ensures that its footprint extends beyond its grocery aisles.
Food Lion’s Workforce and Commitment to Diversity
As one of the largest employers in the region, Food Lion boasts a workforce of over 82,000 associates with 3,725 of those in Rowan County alone.
The company’s dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment has earned it national recognition. In 2023, Newsweek named Food Lion one of “America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity.” This honor underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to making its associates feel valued, respected, and integral to its mission.
A Platinum Sponsor of Forward Rowan
Food Lion’s impact on Rowan County goes beyond groceries. As a Platinum Sponsor of the Forward Rowan campaign for the last five years, the company has played a pivotal role in driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for residents.
Food Lion’s partnership with Forward Rowan has helped create new job opportunities and uplifted the entire community, demonstrating its continued investment in the region where it all began.
A Legacy That Continues to Grow
From its humble beginnings in Salisbury to becoming a part of the global Ahold Delhaize family, Food Lion’s story is one of perseverance, innovation, and community. Today, the company continues to live by the values set forth by its founders—providing affordable groceries while giving back to the communities it serves. As Food Lion moves forward, it remains a trusted neighbor and essential part of Rowan County’s legacy, now and for generations to come.
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