Meijer Goes Smaller

By Marianne Wilson

Meijer has unveiled its first new format since it introduced a neighborhood market concept in 2018.

The Midwest retailer’s Meijer Grocery concept debuted with two stores in Southeast Michigan, in Lake Orion and Macomb Township. Featuring a footprint of 75,000- to 90,000-sq.-ft., the new format will allow the chain to open in more locations than was possible with its larger supercenter format, which averages about 150,000 sq. ft.

Meijer Grocery stores feature design elements to enhance the shopping experience and provide greater convenience. Wide aisles allow for fast navigation, while rear-access coolers allow employees to refill refrigerated items without crowding the sales floor.

In addition, each location has a family restroom, equipped with an adult-changing table — a feature also available in several Meijer supercenters — for the convenience and dignity of customers with disabilities and their caregivers. As in all Meijer stores, Meijer Grocery offers free access to Aira, an app-based service that provides live navigation assistance to blind and lowvision customers via their smartphones

Meijer Grocery carries all the “essential” categories a customer might need for a quick trip or weekly restock, the company said. The stores also house a bakery, full-service deli and in-store and drive-thru pharmacy. Locallysourced products are spotlighted in nearly every department.

In addition, the stores feature the same technologies that are available at traditional Meijer locations, including its “Shop and Scan” feature which allows shoppers to avoid the checkout by paying with their smart phones.

Based in Grand Rapids, Mich., the privately-owned and family-operated Meijer operates 501 supercenters, neighborhood markets, Meijer Grocery and Express stores throughout the Midwest.

The retailer traces its roots back to 1934 when Dutch immigrant Frederik Meijer opened a grocery store in Greenville, Mich., offering staple items at bargain prices.