Kings Goes ‘Local Fresh 24/7’ Again

Kings Food Markets will roll out its "Local Fresh 24/7" program for the second year, on May 24. The program delivers locally grown farm-fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs to Kings produce departments within 24 hours of being handpicked.

“At Kings Food Markets, we are continually looking for ways in which we can bring our customers the very best selection of products and ingredients,” said Judy Spires, president and CEO of the Parsippany, N.J.-based upscale grocer, which operates 25 stores in New Jersey, New York and Connecticut. “Our Local Fresh 24/7 program is unique because it provides our shoppers with the highest-quality, freshest produce in their communities, while also supporting local and regional farmers.”

Under the program, Kings works with a network of small and midsize regional farmers. Local farmers participating in the program pick fresh, seasonal products in the morning, and through an expedited distribution process, they’re delivered to Kings’ stores and offered for sale the next day. Exclusively launched by Kings, the program was developed in collaboration with Plainville, Mass.-based Red Tomato, a nonprofit organization that works to better connect farmers and consumers.

“There is no other place you can get Local Fresh 24/7 produce,” affirmed Paul Kneeland, Kings’ VP of produce, meat, seafood and floral. “From the dedicated growers, to the distribution teams and Red Tomato staff, to the commitment of the entire Kings organization, Local Fresh 24/7 is truly a team effort.”

The items available at each store will vary daily, with such summer staples as heirloom tomatoes, squash, cilantro, lettuce, parsley, mint, radishes and spinach expected. Shoppers can check online for the latest updates on which products are available through Local Fresh 24/7, or for weekly recipes using fresh ingredients.