Meijer to Launch Major Michigan, Ohio Remodels

Meijer will invest more than $75 million in a major remodeling project for stores in Michigan and Ohio.

“We are pleased to reinforce our commitment to these communities,” said Hank Meijer, co-chairman and CEO. “Our customers expect high standards from us, and our investment in these stores will ensure they continue to receive our best.”

This initiative focuses on 10 stores in key locations throughout the region – eight in Michigan (Benton Harbor, Mason, Washington Township, Livonia, Plainwell, Lowell, Grandville and Madison Heights) and two in Ohio (Orange Township and Columbus). Planning has already begun in a number of stores and project completion is slated for the end of the year.

These remodeling projects include a variety of specific enhancements both inside and outside the store such as lighting, heating, refrigeration, exterior lighting and parking lot maintenance. Additionally, the introduction of newer technology in key areas during the remodeling process is expected to result in reduced energy usage and a more energy-efficient store.

Meijer also plans to open two new stores in 2011. These include a 192,000-square-foot supercenter in Stevensville, Mich., and Meijer’s third “small format” store, which will be located in the Chicago suburb of Melrose Park. These two new stores represent an investment of more than $25 million and will create as many as 400 full- and part-time jobs.

Since 2006, Meijer has opened 30 new stores and remodeled more than 60 others. This has resulted in the creation of more than 10,000 jobs and millions of dollars of tax revenue pumped into local communities.

“We continue our focus on slow, steady growth,” Meijer said. “This has allowed us to thrive in a tough retail environment, while supporting our customers, team members and the communities where they work and live.”

Grand Rapids, Mich.-based Meijer operates 195 stores throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky. Meijer stores include expanded fresh produce and meat departments, as well as pharmacies, comprehensive electronics departments, garden centers and apparel offerings.