At a time in America when the words “Buy Local” are perhaps more important than at any time in recent memory, the mega supermarket chain at Meijer has launched their own “Buy Local” meal program to show appreciation of its frontline team members while supporting local restaurants during these unprecedented times.
In an initiative that began last week, each of the retailer’s 248 supercenters, grocery stores and distribution facilities began partnering with a local, independent restaurant in its community to purchase meals for its team members. The community-focused drive will continue for the next few weeks, as well.
Meijer President & CEO Rick Keyes says, “Our teams are working hard every day to ensure our stores are clean and fully stocked so our customers can find what they need for their families,” and adds, “This initiative is just one of the ways we are trying to show them just how much we appreciate their dedication, while also providing an opportunity to support important small businesses in the communities we serve.”
The Buy Local meal program will continue for the next few weeks but has already boosted morale across the Midwest.
Louie Angelo’s, a restaurant near Elgin, Illinois wrote on its Facebook page, “Our hearts are SO FULL, THANK YOU @meijer for supporting Louie Angelo’s during these difficult times!! Your commitment to small, local businesses like ours makes an enormous impact. We feel so honored to provide meals to all your selfless, hardworking employees!”
Meanwhile, the Meijer in West Chester, Ohio chose Roc-a-Fellas for its first team member meal after learning that the restaurant fed 16 families in need, while the Lansing Distribution Center purchased more than 1,900 turkey and ham sub sandwiches from family-owned Tony M’s.
Keyes says, “All of us at Meijer are proud to serve our communities and we will continue to work through these challenging times together.”
Meijer officials did not share the names of local restaurants selected in Benton Harbor, Stevensville or South Haven to provide for associates in Michigan’s Great Southwest.
The Grand Rapids-based retailer operates 248 supercenters and grocery stores throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Wisconsin, and has been a privately-owned and family-operated company since 1934.
