Meijer Makes History as it Opens its First Supercenter in Detroit

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., July 24, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- As the pioneer of the "one-stop shopping" experience, Meijer will once again make history as it opens its first supercenter in the city of Detroit next week at the Gateway Marketplace shopping center.

The July 25 opening celebrates the retailer's commitment to the city and its residents. At the former Michigan State Fairgrounds, the 190,000-square-foot supercenter will provide neighbors with quality merchandise, fresh produce and a full-service, drive-thru pharmacy that puts family health care first, including walk-in health screenings, comprehensive immunizations and specially trained diabetes- care pharmacists.

"We are thrilled to offer the Meijer experience to our new neighbors," Co-chairman Doug Meijer said. "There's so much history and pride here, so many people who've lived their entire lives in the city of Detroit, that the opportunity to provide healthy living options and help encourage growth is something our company is grateful to be a part of."

Located at 8 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, the Detroit Meijer store creates more than 550 jobs and will embody the commitment to community that has guided the family-owned retailer over the years. Meijer donates more than 6 percent of its net profit each year to charitable organizations such as food pantries. The company also partners with local farmers and businesses, when available, to provide locally-grown produce and other local products.

For example, the Detroit Meijer will feature State Fair Pale Ale, a distinctive craft beer from Detroit-based Atwater Brewery honoring the historic Michigan State Fair.

"The opening of Detroit's first Meijer store means new jobs, continued economic growth and greater convenience for the residents of our city," said Detroit Mayor Dave Bing. "As the anchor of the new Gateway Marketplace shopping center, Meijer represents another important business investment that is transforming Detroit into a retail destination."

Additionally, the Detroit Meijer store will be the latest to highlight Michigan small businesses through the retailer's Made in Michigan initiative with the Michigan State University Product Center for Food-Ag-Bio.  Last year, Meijer expanded its program that supports small Michigan businesses to feature 55 new Michigan-made grocery items in all stores statewide. This year's lineup will include marinara sauce by Bon-A-Rose in New Hudson, barbeque sauce from Let'z Eat Food in Waterford, pickled beets and peppers by Safie's Pickles in Chesterfield, and healthy Mediterranean foods by Teta Foods in Clinton Township.  

"This store represents a city experience our whole team wants to invest in and watch grow," said store director Adrian Lewis, who personally interviewed more than 400 of the new Meijer team. "I already feel at home here and am looking forward to providing a one-stop shopping destination that's welcoming to all of our neighbors."

In addition to the retailer's traditional grocery and merchandise offerings, garden center and gas station, the new Meijer pharmacy offers the company's free prescription program as well as clinical services and immunizations designed to promote family health. The prescription program includes leading oral generic antibiotics with a special focus on prescriptions most often filled for children, prenatal vitamins and medications for those with diabetes and high cholesterol. Since its inception in 2006, the Meijer free prescription program has filled more than 14 million free prescriptions, saving Meijer customers nearly $200 million.

"As a pioneer of one-stop shopping, we've always strived to offer easy, affordable solutions to our neighbors and look forward to bringing our offerings to Detroit," Doug Meijer said. "Whether it's a quick meal for the family, getting your yard ready for summer or seeking answers about a nagging health concern, these supercenters represent our ongoing commitment to help provide a healthier balanced lifestyle for anyone who steps through our door."  

About Meijer: Meijer is a Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer that operates 203 supercenters and grocery stores throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky. As a pioneer of the "one-stop shopping" concept, Meijer stores have evolved through the years to include expanded fresh produce and meat departments, as well as pharmacies, comprehensive electronics departments, garden centers and apparel offerings. Additional information on Meijer and the ability to shop for more can be found at www.meijer.com. Follow Meijer on Twitter @twitter.com/Meijer and @twitter.com/MeijerPR or become a fan at www.facebook.com/meijer.

SOURCE Meijer