Retailer to add nine supercenters, remodel 32 others in 2016

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Meijer Inc.’s expansion plans for the year include an investment of more than $400 million in projects that will include the construction of nine new Meijer supercenters and the remodeling of 32 other outlets.

“We are pleased to continue to grow and invest in the Midwest communities that have supported us for so long,” chief executive officer Hank Meijer said in a statement on Wednesday. “By keeping prices low and ensuring a great shopping environment, we are keeping our promise to our customers that we will provide the best one-stop shopping solution.”

The new Meijer supercenters set to open in 2016 will be located in: Owensboro, Ky.; Evansville and Indianapolis, Ind.; Round Lake Beach and Flossmoor, Ill.; Sturgis and Flat Rock, Mich.; and Sussex and Waukesha, Wis.

In addition to the new supercenters, Meijer is remodeling stores in such key markets as Detroit, Indianapolis and Fort Wayne, Ind. Southeastern Michigan alone will see 12 Meijer supercenters remodeled this year, while Indianapolis will have three remodel projects. Two Meijer supercenters in Fort Wayne will be included as well. The Meijer store in Burton, Mich., one of the company’s oldest operating stores, will also be included in the project.

The remodeling projects will vary by location, the company said, but will include improved store layouts, expanded grocery and health and beauty sections, as well as lighting, heating, refrigeration and parking lot improvements. Meanwhile the introduction of newer technology during remodeling efforts will result in more energy-efficient stores.

“We will continue our process of slow, steady growth,” Meijer said. “This plan has allowed us to remain focused on our customers and team members, while growing our business and ensuring we continue to innovate in the marketplace.”

The opening of each new Meijer store represents as many as 300 full- and part-time jobs, the company said, adding that since 2010 it has opened 36 new stores and remodeled dozens of others. Meijer operates 224 supercenters and grocery stores throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Wisconsin.