Meijer investing in new stores, remodels

Privately-owned, family-operated Meijer announced plans to invest more than $375 million in new and remodeled stores in 2017 across its six-state footprint.



The investment includes the construction of seven new Meijer supercenters and 22 remodel projects. While Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin will each welcome new Meijer supercenters later this year, dozens of other Meijer stores have begun or will soon begin remodel projects to enhance the customer shopping experience.



"These projects represent an investment in our customers, team members and the local communities that have supported us for so long," said Rick Keyes, president and CEO, Meijer, which operates more than 230 supercenters and grocery stores throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Wisconsin. We're also excited that at long last we'll cross the bridge and open our first stores in Michigan's Upper Peninsula."



The newly announced remodel investment means that by the end of 2017, Meijer will have remodeled and upgraded nearly 90 stores since 2010.



The company's new store commitment follows its focus on steady growth throughout its six-state footprint. When including this year's stores, Meijer will have opened more than 50 new stores since 2010.



The new Meijer supercenters opening in 2017 include Escanaba, Michigan; Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan; McCordsville, Indiana; Franklin, Indiana; Greenfield, Wisconsin; Howard, Wisconsin; and West Bend, Wisconsin.



Meijer is remodeling stores in five different states, including such key markets as Detroit, Cincinnati, Louisville and suburban Chicago. Six Meijer supercenters in Michigan alone will be updated, with the stores in Mt. Pleasant, Commerce Township and Algoma Township slated for major remodels.



The extent of the remodels varies, but the projects include a variety of specific store enhancements, including improved store layouts, expanded grocery and health and beauty sections, as well as lighting, heating, refrigeration and parking lot improvements.



Additionally, the introduction of newer technology in key areas during the remodel process will result in more energy-efficient stores.