Meijer is ready for back to school

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Meijer conducted a survey of its customers, which revealed that 90% of them plan to spend the same or more than they did last year and 40% will have completed their back-to-school shopping before the school year begins.

Median spend will range between $101-$150 per student and $201-$250 in total. In addition, 15% of parents expect students to help pay for a portion of school expenses and nearly 30% will get help from grandparents.

Other trends revealed by the survey include an increased emphasis on electronics, particularly e-readers and tablets, as well as apparel, art supplies, licensed products, neon accessories and light-up products.

"At Meijer, we understand how busy the start of the school year can be, which is why our broad selection on today's hottest trends and classroom essentials makes it easy for parents and students to find exactly what they need at a great low price," said Peter Whitsett, EVP of merchandising and marketing for the Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer.