20 Facts Michiganders Never, Ever Knew About Meijer

If you’ve spent any time in Michigan, chances are you’ve stepped into a Meijer.

The store is known for low prices, wide aisles, and being open late at night. But behind the scenes, Meijer has a fascinating history.

Here are some of the little-known facts that make Meijer stand out in the retail world.

Meijer Invented the Supercenter Model

Long before big-box stores became the norm, Meijer introduced the concept of a one-stop shopping experience.

In 1962, it opened the first supercenter in the U.S., combining groceries with general merchandise under one roof.

This idea was groundbreaking and influenced major retailers that followed.

Today, nearly every big-box chain has Meijer to thank for setting the standard.

The Company Is Still Family Owned

Unlike many major retailers, Meijer has remained privately owned by the Meijer family.

The business was started by Hendrik Meijer, a barber who opened a grocery store during the Great Depression.

His son and later generations helped expand the company while keeping it rooted in family leadership.

This private ownership allows Meijer to make decisions without the pressure of public shareholders.

Stores Never Close for Inventory

Some chains shut down once a year to complete inventory checks, but Meijer doesn’t.

Instead, it uses advanced systems and overnight staff to complete inventory without closing its doors.

Furthermore, some Meijer locations are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Customers appreciate the convenience, and the stores rarely interrupt regular hours.

Meijer Was One of the First to Use Checkout Scanners

In the early days of barcode technology, Meijer was among the first retailers to invest in scanning systems.

This helped speed up checkout lines and reduce pricing errors.

It also set the foundation for modern inventory tracking and data collection in retail.

While other stores were still using sticker guns, Meijer was already scanning items at the register.

The Store Name Is Pronounced “Meyer”

Despite its spelling, “Meijer” is pronounced just like “Meyer.”

Many first-time shoppers mispronounce it, especially if they’ve only seen the name written.

The pronunciation comes from the founder’s Dutch last name, which kept its original spelling.

Once people hear it said correctly, it usually sticks for good.

Meijer Gave Away Free Prescription Medications

For years, Meijer offered a list of common antibiotics, prenatal vitamins, and other prescriptions completely free.

Customers didn’t need insurance or a loyalty card, just a doctor’s prescription.

The program helped millions of families save money on basic health care.

Though some items have since been removed from the list, the initiative set a powerful example in retail pharmacy.

It Was One of the First Retailers to Offer Self-Checkout

Before self-checkout was everywhere, Meijer began rolling out the technology in the early 2000s.

It allowed customers to scan and bag their own groceries, which helped reduce lines during busy hours.

The company gradually added more machines as shoppers got used to the idea.

Today, most Meijer locations have multiple self-checkout lanes, especially near the entrances.

Some Locations Have Barbershops and Nail Salons

While most shoppers expect groceries and clothing at Meijer, some stores offer full-service amenities like barbershops and nail salons.

These add-on services are designed to make the store a complete lifestyle stop, not just a grocery run.

Other locations may include coffee shops, photography studios, or even community rooms.

It all depends on the store’s size and local demand.

Meijer Operates Its Own Distribution Centers

Unlike many retailers that rely heavily on third-party suppliers, Meijer owns and operates its own massive distribution centers.

These facilities handle everything from fresh produce to dry goods and general merchandise.

This setup allows the company to move products quickly and maintain tighter control over inventory and quality.

It also helps keep shelves stocked even when supply chains are strained elsewhere.

Meijer Has Its Own Line of Organic and Specialty Products

In addition to standard private-label items, Meijer launched its own brand called “True Goodness.”

This line includes organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free products at more affordable prices.

It was created in response to growing demand for healthier grocery options without high-end price tags.

Many shoppers say it rivals the quality of national organic brands.

Meijer Once Launched Its Own Gas Station Chain

Beyond groceries, Meijer expanded into fuel with its own branded gas stations.

These stations often sit right next to Meijer stores and offer competitive pricing to drive customer loyalty.

Some locations even offer fuel discounts tied to digital coupons or specific purchases in-store.

It’s part of Meijer’s strategy to be a full-service destination.

The Store Layouts Are Custom-Tailored to Each Community

While the general layout of Meijer stores is consistent, each location is uniquely tailored to the needs of the local community.

This includes adjusting the mix of groceries, home goods, clothing, and even ethnic food selections.

Some stores also feature larger garden centers or expanded pet sections based on regional demand.

The flexibility helps Meijer compete with both big-box chains and local stores.

Meijer Was Among the First to Launch Curbside Pickup

Long before curbside became standard during the pandemic, Meijer had already started offering pickup services.

They began testing the option in select locations as early as 2016.

Customers could order groceries online and have them brought to their car without ever stepping inside.

The early rollout gave Meijer a head start in adapting to changing shopper habits.

Its Grocery Section Was Once a Separate Store Inside

When Meijer first launched the supercenter model, the grocery section was called “Thrifty Acres.”

It was treated almost like a store within a store, with its own branding and signage.

Over time, the branding was dropped, but the concept helped introduce customers to shopping for everything in one trip.

It was a new way to think about retail, and it caught on fast.

Meijer Partners with Local Farms and Producers

Meijer works with hundreds of local farms across the Midwest to stock fresh produce and meat.

Many locations source milk, eggs, and seasonal vegetables from nearby producers.

These partnerships reduce transportation time and help support local agriculture.

It’s part of the company’s long-standing focus on freshness and community involvement.

The Founder Was a Barber Before Opening a Store

Hendrik Meijer didn’t start in retail. He was a barber who decided to open a grocery store in the back of his shop during the Great Depression.

He saw it as a way to help customers and earn extra income during hard times.

That single idea grew into one of the largest family-owned retailers in the country.

His entrepreneurial spirit still shapes the company’s values today.

Meijer Offers Digital Coupons Through mPerks

Meijer’s mPerks program is a free digital rewards system that includes personalized coupons and discounts.

Shoppers can clip deals online or in the app, then enter their phone number at checkout to apply the savings.

The program also tracks spending and offers occasional rewards like $5 off your total bill.

It’s one of the most user-friendly store apps in the grocery world.

Some Meijer Stores Have Quiet Hours for Sensory-Friendly Shopping

In an effort to be more inclusive, Meijer introduced sensory-friendly shopping hours in many of its stores.

During these times, music is turned off, lights are dimmed, and overhead announcements are limited.

This creates a calmer environment for customers with sensory sensitivities.

The initiative has been especially welcomed by families with children on the autism spectrum.

Meijer Operates Pharmacies in Nearly Every Store

Most Meijer locations include a full-service pharmacy offering prescription refills, vaccines, and health screenings.

Many also provide walk-in flu shots and other immunizations with no appointment required.

The ability to pick up medications while grocery shopping makes it easy for busy families.

It’s one more reason shoppers view Meijer as a one-stop store.

Meijer Has a Generous Return Policy

Meijer allows returns on most items within 90 days, and in many cases, you don’t need a receipt.