As part of the 11th annual Very Merry Meijer event, Meijer surprised a customer at each of its store across the Midwest with a $1,000 shopping spree, while three employees at every site received gift cards.
The event, which began in 2014 to help spread holiday cheer in stores, has grown into an annual tradition across the company.
“Our stores look forward to this event every year, and the teamwork and excitement that goes into pulling off each surprise is truly heartwarming,” said Ray Hancart, VP of communications and community engagement. “We strive to enrich lives in the communities we serve, and this is an extra special way to continue fulfilling that purpose during the busy holiday season.”
In total, more than 4,600 customers have received shopping sprees for holiday gifts and groceries through the 11 Very Merry Meijer events. They were awarded at random, either while they were shopping or in the checkout lane. Many had stories to share about how they would use the gift, and all were shocked and appreciative.
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In Charlotte, Michigan, Store Director Angela Clark selected a couple in the produce area. They teared up at the news, sharing that the man has been battling stage 4 cancer all year. Because of the ongoing medical bills for his treatments, they weren’t sure they would be able to have a normal Christmas.
In Ann Arbor, Michigan, Store Director Les Collins selected a mom with a family of five, including two children with significant medical issues who have been in and out of hospitals all year. All her financial resources have been exhausted, so she was grateful for the gift.
Meijer also continued its tradition of celebrating employees through the Very Merry Meijer festivities, surprising them with $200 gift cards.
“I was shocked. I didn’t expect this at all, and it felt really special,” said Zach Sortore, food clerk at the store in Anderson, Indiana. “To be picked for this changed my whole month, and now I can provide a great Christmas for my daughter.”
View the Very Merry Meijer surprises video and follow along on social channels at #VeryMerryMeijer.
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