Meijer employees braved dangerous conditions to keep stores open and communities stocked during Winter Storm Fern, which swept across the Midwest in January 2026, the Grand Rapids, Michigan-based retailer announced Feb. 17.
The historic storm dropped more than a foot of snow in many areas, shutting down roads and halting daily life across the region. In several communities, Meijer was the only store open.
Ohio stores rally
In Huber Heights, Ohio, Mark, a meat cutter, was the only member of his department able to reach work. When fellow team member Johnny noticed Mark’s headlights had drained his battery at the end of the shift, Johnny helped start Mark’s car in subzero temperatures so he could get home.
“This is the type of teamwork and care for each other that makes Meijer and our team members so amazing,” said Lori Haley, store director.
In Troy, Ohio, leaders from produce, deli, bakery, grocery, express, service and overnight stocking all made it in during what the retailer described as the largest snowstorm in the area’s history. Some covered manager duties while others picked up cross-functional work without being asked.
“I am very proud of my team and appreciate all that they did to keep our store open for the Troy community during this weather event,” said Kevin Kragenbrink, store director.
Distribution and logistics response
The Tipp City distribution team added extra shifts and managed numerous rush orders to keep stores stocked. Meijer Outbound Logistics worked with inbound carrier partners including Van Kampen, Van Eerden, Serv U, USA Truck and X Treme as the storm approached.
Many carriers removed trucks from the hardest-hit roads to ensure driver safety. Despite these challenges, Ruan, a contract transportation service, delivered a donation from Tipp City, Ohio to Gym Town Food Bank in Elkhart, Indiana, while Meijer Outbound Logistics completed a delivery to Gleaners Community Foodbank in Detroit, Michigan.
Meijer Inbound Logistics collaborated with vendors including Campbells, Delmonte and Bay Valley Foods to protect product integrity against extreme cold by securing carriers with available refrigerated trailers. The team also secured additional support from local carriers for surge capacity needs.
Team members from Indiana to Ohio to Kentucky navigated impassable roads, subzero wind chills and near-whiteout conditions to ensure neighbors had access to essentials during the storm.
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