Meijer goes local for produce

Grand Rapids, Mich. Meijer announced that it plans to source more local produce as part of its "Home Grown" initiative to help boost local economies.

According to Meijer, its Home Grown program pumps more than $50 million into local economies. The company added that it is one of the largest buyers of locally grown produce in Michigan, and one of the region's biggest, with local produce accounting for nearly 30% of all the fruits and vegetables sold by the 189-store supercenter chain during the peak growing season.

Sourcing locally, according to Meijer, has helped reduce shipping costs, fuel consumption and deliver a fresher product at a lower price to customers.