Lidl US and Ahold Delhaize USA have earned Top Employer certification for 2026, making them the only U.S.-based grocery retailers recognized by the Amsterdam-based Top Employers Institute for workplace excellence this year. The certifications acknowledge both companies’ human resources practices and organizational culture.
The Top Employers Institute evaluates companies based on participation and results from its HR Best Practices Survey, which examines six HR domains across 20 topics including people strategy, work environment, talent acquisition, learning, diversity, equity and inclusion, and well-being.
Lidl US earned the certification for the third consecutive year, while Ahold Delhaize USA received recognition for 2026 after earning the designation in 2025. Ahold Delhaize USA’s certification also extends to its five regional banners – Food Lion, Giant Food, The Giant Company, Hannaford and Stop & Shop.
“People are at the center of everything we do, and we’re pleased to be recognized with this award,” said Karen Procell, CHRO and general counsel of Lidl US. “We’re constantly finding new ways to support, develop and celebrate our teams. We are proud of our progress here at Lidl US, and we’re excited to continue to take the organization to the next level.”
Ahold Delhaize USA Maintains Recognition
Ahold Delhaize USA, a division of Netherlands-based Ahold Delhaize, earned certification across seven countries for 2026, including the U.S., Belgium, Czech Republic, Greece, Netherlands, Romania and Serbia. The U.S. division supports its five grocery brands with services including finance, legal, sustainability, commercial operations, digital and e-commerce and technology.
“We’re honored by this recognition,” said Cathy Edwards, VP of human resources for Ahold Delhaize USA. “At Ahold Delhaize USA, we’re committed to a workplace where associates can grow and win together – and this recognition highlights the focus we place on enabling our associates to thrive and cultivating a people-first, purpose-driven culture.”
The certification reflects Ahold Delhaize USA’s efforts to maintain consistent workplace standards across its regional operations. Food Lion, Giant Food, The Giant Company, Hannaford and Stop & Shop each operate with distinct HR infrastructure while aligning with parent company standards on core people practices.
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Lidl Expands Global Standing
Lidl globally earned the X-Large Enterprise Seal for the first time in 2026, recognizing high standards and quality processes for HR management across its international operations. The German retailer also received the Top Employers Europe seal for the eighth consecutive year.
The X-Large Enterprise Seal applies to companies operating across 30 or more countries. Lidl operates about 12,000 stores across 32 countries with more than 341,000 employees globally. In the United States, the retailer operates more than 170 stores across nine East Coast states and Washington, D.C.
For 2026, Lidl US demonstrated particular strength in talent acquisition, onboarding, learning programs, employer branding and workplace integrity. The grocer’s consistent development in onboarding was cited as encouraging new employees to reach performance levels quickly and achieve long-term success from their first day.
“Our culture fuels our ability to attract and retain top talent,” Procell added. “I couldn’t be prouder of our teams, whose dedication and care have earned us this distinction.”
Certification Process and Standards
The Top Employers Institute certifies organizations committed to providing outstanding work environments through data-driven people strategies and HR policies. The survey covers strategic areas from recruitment and onboarding through employee development, benefits and organizational culture.
“In the midst of constant change – through technological advances, economic shifts and evolving social landscapes – it’s inspiring to see people and organizations rise to the challenge,” said David Plink, CEO of the Top Employers Institute.
“This year, the Top Employer certification program underscores the commitment of our Top Employers who continue to set the standard and consistently deliver best-in-class HR policies and practices. These Top Employers strive to promote growth and well-being while enriching the world of work.”
The Top Employers Institute has been certifying workplace excellence for three decades. In 2026, the organization certified 2,300 employers across 122 countries, affecting more than 9 million employees worldwide. The certification reflects organizations’ commitment to continuous improvement in people practices, alignment of people strategy with business goals, and transformative workplace initiatives.
Edwards noted that workplace culture drives Ahold Delhaize USA’s ability to attract and retain talent across its operations. “I couldn’t be prouder of our teams, whose dedication and care have earned us this distinction,” she said.