PARSIPPANY, N.J. — Kings Food Markets has launched Local Fresh 24/7, a program that enables the chain to offer customers farm-fresh produce within 24 hours of harvest.

Kings Food Markets has launched Local Fresh 24/7, a program that enables the chain to offer customers farm-fresh produce within 24 hours of harvest.

Kings works with a network of small and mid-size regional farmers to deliver featured products fresh to its stores within 24 hours of their harvest. Participating farmers harvest the produce in the morning and deliver it ready for sale through an expedited distribution process by the next day.

Any products not sold within a single day are removed from the Local Fresh 24/7 displays and moved into the general produce section. Products offered vary daily but include a broad range of summer staples.

The program, which is unique to Kings, was developed in partnership with Massachusetts-based Red Tomato, a nonprofit organization committed to better connecting farmers and consumers. "Not only are we able to support our local and regional farmers, but this program also allows us to provide our customers with the healthiest, most delicious fruits, vegetables and herbs possible," says Judy Spires, Kings president and chief executive.