SALISBURY -- Salisbury-based Food Lion is getting a new owner. Ahold and Delhaize announced a merger Wednesday. The multi-billion dollar deal could mean changes in Salisbury, where Food Lion employs thousands of people. Rowan officials say the company’s investment in the area will likely continue.
Two major food retailers announced the $29 billion merger Wednesday in Brussels.
It’s a move that will create a base of more than 6,500 stores, including those in Salisbury. Food Lion employs more than 3,000 people at Salisbury headquarters and in other capacities in the area.
"We think that looking at these two companies and the mergers will just enhance the overall experience for our headquarter building here in Salisbury and Rowan County,” said Elaine Spalding, the president of the Rowan County Chamber of Commerce.
Ahold and Delhaize leaders say the merger won’t change brand value and importance on local levels.
"We love our local supermarket brands, we love the geographies where we compete,” said Frans Muller, president and CEO of Delhaize Group.
Rowan County leaders are hopeful the announcement is good news.
"Love having them here. They have been a major corporate contributor,” said Spalding.
The company’s roots in Salisbury date back to the 50s. Three people turned an entrepreneurial dream into a supermarket chain. Those roots are still part of the company.
"Those roots are still in those companies, and we shall save those roots in the future. I think it’s incredibly important,” said Mats Jansson, chairman of the Board of Directors for Delhaize Group.
Delhaize Group is still the largest employer in Salisbury.
Food Lion officials said that it's too premature to comment on what the merger will mean for Food Lion headquarters or jobs in Rowan County. They did share that shoppers will continue to see their logos and banners at stores.
As the two companies seek shareholder approval, leaders say brand identity and customer satisfaction will be two priorities. Shareholders from both companies have to approve the agreement and they hope to close sometime next year.