SALISBURY, N.C. — Food Lion last month unveiled remodeled stores in the Norfolk, Va., the latest of the chain’s markets to get store upgrades as part of an initiative called “Easy, Fresh and Affordable … You Can Count on Food Lion Every Day!” The strategy involves improvements throughout the stores, from the expansion of product assortments to customer-centric training for associates and investments in lower prices.

Food Lion began remodeling its stores in 2015 and has now remodeled 649 of its 1,030 outlets in order to create a better shopping experience for customers.

Store upgrades in the Norfolk area were completed on August 29. In addition to the in-store improvements, the supermarket retailer hired an additional 4,000 associates and is donating two food trucks to local food banks, an extension of the company’s long-standing commitment to helping feed the neediest residents in the communities in which it operates.

“Food Lion has nourished the greater Norfolk community for nearly 40 years, and we’re excited to bring these improvements to our 105 local stores,” said Meg Ham, president of Food Lion, a unit of Ahold Delhaize. “We’ve created a new grocery shopping experience through the significant investments in our stores, customers, associates and communities. From our expanded variety and product assortment, newly reorganized stores, new signage to a more efficient check-out experience, every change we’ve made will make it easier for our customers to find fresh, quality products at affordable prices every day. And true to our heritage, we always offer everyday-low prices along with weekly sales and promotions, making it easier for you to nourish your family on a budget. We invite our customers to come and experience the fresh, new changes at your neighborhood Food Lion.”

Ribbon-cutting events were scheduled at each store on August 29. All of the first 100 customers in line were eligible for a free tote bag and a gift card valued at between $10 and $200.