The plant will also house a Culinary Innovation Center

NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. – Ahold Delhaize USA on Wednesday announced the opening of its fresh foods processing facility, which has begun preparing salads, sandwiches, wraps and other items for the deli and grab-and-go sections of its supermarkets. Production of cut fruits and vegetables is slated to begin next year.

“We’re proud to officially open our doors and begin production,” said Roger Wheeler, president of Retail Business Services, the Ahold Delhaize services subsidiary that oversees supply chain operations for the retailer’s Food Lion, Giant Food, GIANT/MARTIN’S, Hannaford, Peapod and Stop & Shop brands. “This facility is an integral part of our business and will help us provide our grocery retail partners and their customers with innovative fresh, convenient items that surprise and delight. We’re also proud to now officially be part of the North Kingstown community. Our team has already been out volunteering at the Rhode Island Community Food Bank, and we look forward to continuing to engage.”

The facility, operated by Ahold Delhaize subsidiary Infinity Fresh Kitchen, will also house a Culinary Innovation Center, where crews will test new, fresh and private-brand food concepts, beginning next year.

Taylor Farms is serving as the strategic partner to manage the facility’s operations and workforce, Ahold Delhaize said.

“We’re pleased to work with Retail Business Services on this innovative facility and excited that it’s now up and running,” said Bruce Taylor, chief executive officer for Taylor Farms. “We’ve got a great team in place for initial operations and look forward to creating a great place to work and being a partner in the community.”