BY DEBBIE PAGE
The new Food Lion in Troutman, covering 36,000 square feet, opened to a bustling crowd. By 7:45 a.m. Wednesday, the parking lot was full, showing how much the community welcomed this grocery store.
To kick off the event, the South Iredell High School NJROTC presented the colors and led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance. Store manager Eric Bell expressed pride in Food Lion’s 30-year history in Troutman. He shared, “At Food Lion, we are passionate about serving our community. We strive for an affordable and clean shopping experience, where everyone feels like family.”
One of Food Lion’s goals is to help those facing food insecurity. Bell highlighted their partnership with local organizations, FeedNC and H.E.L.P. Ministries. To mark the store’s opening, Food Lion donated 25,000 meals to each of these organizations. Representatives from both groups accepted checks with gratitude.
Customers in line received stickers, representing an extra 10 meals for those organizations. FeedNC will collect unsold but edible food from the store to support local families in need, ensuring that nutritious food doesn’t go to waste.
Bell also thanked local leaders, including Troutman Mayor Teross Young and several council members, for their support. Mayor Young shared his excitement, stating, “It’s a blessing to have another store in our town.” He noted that residents had been eager for more grocery options. As the mayor, he has been involved with Food Lion since 1993 and praised their commitment to the community.
Town Manager Ron Wyatt reminisced about his early days working in a Food Town, which was the predecessor to Food Lion. He praised the chain for being a vital part of Troutman, mentioning that the Food Lion on Main Street was named the 2023 Troutman Organization of the Year.
The opening ceremony featured 92-year-old Ann Sims, a former Troutman Citizen of the Year, who cut the ribbon. Ann has deep roots in the community, having lived in Troutman since the 1960s.
Following the ceremony, the first 100 customers received gift cards worth up to $200 and a free reusable shopping bag. The new store will employ around 80 people and provides a varied product range, focusing on ready-to-eat, ready-to-cook, or ready-to-heat meals.
Additionally, shoppers can enjoy a walk-in garden cooler, fresh cut fruits, in-house sushi, and a hot foods bar. Food Lion also emphasizes sourcing products from local growers for greater freshness.
The store is located at 155 Crosstie Lane, right next to the Iredell Charter Academy of Arts & Science. It will be open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
