Meijer is growing its selection of Black-owned brands to meet customer interest and demonstrate its support of small businesses in its communities through its Meijer Grow Academy. Since formalizing this program in 2021, Meijer has grown its selection of Black-owned brands by about 35 percent.
When a certified diverse supplier joins Meijer, the supplier inclusion team welcomes them with a robust program that includes onboarding, training and networking events that demonstrate not only how to do business with Meijer but also how to grow within the retailer’s six state footprint and three store formats.
The Meijer Grow Academy helps diverse businesses every step of the way, presenting foundational material on brand strategy, marketing, product packaging, operating processes and distribution capabilities, among other topics. Suppliers also receive 1:1 coaching from Meijer buyers, supplier inclusion and other business teams to help them strengthen their business in reaching more customers.
“The Meijer Supplier Inclusion program not only showcases new, diverse brands, but also prioritizes growing existing brands within our various store formats and locations,” said Carla Hendon, director of supplier inclusion.
“I’m incredibly proud of our team for their ongoing commitment to the small business community and providing a positive space for all entrepreneurs to grow and thrive.”
Although customers can find Black-owned brands on Meijer shelves all year long, a curated product offering will be displayed in all Meijer supercenters in celebration of Black History Month throughout February. The collection spans various product categories, including grocery, health, beauty and home, offering customers an opportunity to further discover and support the Black business community.
To learn more about the retailer’s supplier inclusion efforts, visit its Supplier Inclusion hub.
About Meijer
Meijer is a Grand Rapids, Michigan-based retailer that operates more than 500 supercenters, Meijer Grocery, neighborhood markets and Express locations throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Wisconsin. A privately-owned and family-operated company since 1934, Meijer has evolved through the years to include expanded fresh produce and meat departments, as well as pharmacies, comprehensive apparel departments, pet departments, garden centers, toys and electronics.
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