Ahold Delhaize USA has finalized a lease-back agreement for its upcoming distribution center.

Ahold Delhaize's U.S. division has secured a $475 million investment from Blackstone Credit & Insurance for a new automated grocery distribution center in Burlington, North Carolina, expected to cost $860 million. Blackstone will manage construction costs and own the facility, while Ahold Delhaize will lease it and has the option to purchase later. This deal allows Ahold Delhaize to conserve cash and aims to align long-term costs with benefits. Construction is slated to begin in early 2026, and the center will enhance distribution capabilities for its Food Lion stores.