Ahold Delhaize EDI – A Complete Guide for Suppliers

Ahold Delhaize is one of the world’s largest food retail groups, with a strong presence across United States, Europe and Indonesia. The company operates well-known local supermarket brands like Stop & Shop, Food Lion, Giant, Albert Heijn, and Delhaize, each tailored to the needs of its local communities.

With thousands of stores and a massive supplier network, efficiency and accuracy are critical to keeping operations running smoothly. That is why EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) is a mandatory requirement for vendors working with Ahold Delhaize. For suppliers, being EDI-compliant is not just about following rules. It is about ensuring seamless order processing, faster payments, and a stronger business relationship with this global retail giant.

What is Ahold Delhaize EDI?

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) refers to the transmission of specific documents between businesses in a digital and standardized format. Instead of using paper, fax, or email to exchange information, EDI allows data to flow directly from one company’s software application to another’s.

EDI is the lifeblood of how Ahold Delhaize transacts with vendors. With EDI, files like purchase orders, invoices, shipping notices and acknowledgements are exchanged automatically between your system and theirs.

For suppliers, using EDI with Ahold Delhaize is not just a helpful tool. It’s a requirement. Without it, orders can’t be processed, shipments can’t be tracked, and payments may be delayed. By using EDI, you ensure that your business runs smoothly and stays compliant with Ahold Delhaize’s standards.

Steps to Get Started with Ahold Delhaize EDI

If you’re new to EDI, here’s a simple process to get set up:

1. Understand the requirements – Review Ahold Delhaize’s EDI guidelines for suppliers.
2. Choose an EDI provider – Unless you already have an in-house system, you’ll need an EDI partner to connect you with Ahold Delhaize.
3. Set up and test – Your provider will help set up the required document formats and run test exchanges.
4. Go live – Once testing is approved, you’ll start sending and receiving live EDI transactions with Ahold Delhaize.
5. Stay compliant – Regularly monitor transactions, respond to errors, and keep systems updated.

Benefits of Ahold Delhaize EDI for Suppliers

Using EDI with Ahold Delhaize comes with a lot of advantages for suppliers. EDI helps speed up the entire order-to-cash process by sending purchase orders, invoices, and shipping details directly between systems. That means fewer delays and faster payments.

Because everything is sent in a standard format, there's much less chance of errors from manual data entry. It saves time and helps avoid costly mistakes. EDI also makes it easier to stay compliant with Ahold Delhaize’s strict requirements, which lowers the risk of chargebacks or penalties.

You’ll also get better visibility into orders and shipments, so you can plan inventory, deliveries, and production more effectively. Most importantly, it shows Ahold Delhaize that you're a reliable partner who can meet their expectations consistently and professionally.

Essential EDI Documents Required by Ahold Delhaize

Suppliers working with Ahold Delhaize need to exchange specific EDI documents to stay compliant:

• EDI 850 (Purchase Order): Sent by Ahold Delhaize to initiate an order.
• EDI 855 (Purchase Order Acknowledgment): Confirms the order has been received and accepted.
• EDI 856 (Advance Ship Notice (ASN)): Provides shipment details so Ahold Delhaize can track deliveries before they arrive.
• EDI 810 (Invoice): Sent by the supplier to request payment after goods are delivered.
• EDI 997 (Functional Acknowledgment): Confirms that documents have been successfully received and processed.

Each of these documents plays a vital role in ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and smooth communication across the supply chain.

How the Ahold Delhaize EDI Workflow Operates

The Ahold Delhaize EDI workflow follows a clear yet structured process that ensures accuracy at every step. It begins when Ahold Delhaize issues a purchase order (850) to the supplier. The supplier then responds with a purchase order acknowledgment (855), confirming receipt and acceptance of the order. Before the goods are shipped, an Advance Ship Notice (856) is sent to provide detailed shipment information, allowing Ahold Delhaize to track deliveries ahead of time. Once the order is fulfilled, the supplier generates an invoice (810) to request payment. After all documents are verified, payment is processed, completing the transaction. This streamlined cycle enhances transparency, minimizes disputes, and keeps orders moving efficiently through the supply chain.

Choosing the Right EDI Partner

While Ahold Delhaize requires EDI, suppliers have flexibility in choosing their EDI provider. Instead of being locked into expensive and rigid platforms, many suppliers work with partners like Infocon Systems. With decades of experience, Infocon handles the setup, mapping, testing, and ongoing support directly helping suppliers achieve compliance without hidden fees or unnecessary complications. Choosing the right partner ensures suppliers stay efficient, cost-effective, and fully aligned with Ahold Delhaize’s requirements.

To learn more about how Infocon Systems can take care of your EDI needs for Ahold Delhaize, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at +1 888-339-0722 or email sales@infoconn.com. We’d love to hear from you.