Food Lion put $215 million toward revamping 142 area stores and you’ll want to see the results

The $215 million it cost represents the second-largest investment the company has ever made, Food Lion execs said. Grand re-openings for the locations are today.

The $215 million went toward not only remodeling the stores, but also lowering prices, bringing more goods to each store (expect more natural, organic, gluten-free and specialty items) and enhancing freshness in each department. The company also hired and promoted hundreds of people and enhanced customer service training across all fronts to provide a deeper knowledge of the company and the goods it offers to employees and, in turn, customers.

Food Lion cited a community responsibility for the timing on the investment. One out of every 6 people – and one out of every 4 children – don’t know where their next meal is coming from, the company said. Food Lion said it wants to make it possible for people that choose between paying rent and buying groceries to do both.

Expect remodels, an expanded selection of fresh produce, an organic section and walk-in garden cooler in each store.

Get a quick feel for the total remodel:

And a quick tour of what’s different:

And when you’re done shopping, Food Lion is making it possible to get out in a snap with faster lines and revamped conveyer belts.