US supermarket chain Stop & Shop, a division of global retailer Ahold, has opened the first two of a number of new prototype stores planned to open Stateside.

Stop & Shop boss Marc Smith said: “These stores will change the way people see Stop & Shop and food retail in general. They are exciting, fresh and welcoming.”

A new decor package has been designed to give customers a shopping experience “unlike anything they have ever seen before”, the company said.

Both stores have a pharmacy, perishable departments, large grocery selection and a wide array of general merchandise products, plus restaurant options.