Meijer wraps up 2013 expansion strategy

Meijer wraps up its 2013 growth strategy with the opening of a huge supercenter in Danville, Ill., this week. The 190, 000-sq.-ft. store is the last of six new stores the retailer has opened this year in the Midwest, which represents its most aggressive expansion in recent history.



This latest supercenter, located at 36 Vermillion St., has created 300 jobs and is open 24 hours. It is part of a $200 million investment this year that, along with the other five supercenters, has included extensive remodel projects for five additional stores in Michigan and Illinois and a new distribution complex in Pleasant Prairie, Wis.



"Our team has worked very hard to get this supercenter ready and we're excited to bring a 24-hour shopping option to our new neighbors in Danville and its surrounding communities," said Hank Meijer, co-chairman of Meijer. "Whether it's a quick meal for the family, finding that perfect gift for someone on your holiday list or seeking answers about a nagging health concern, this supercenter represents our ongoing commitment to help provide a healthier, balanced lifestyle for anyone who steps through our door."



In addition to the retailer's traditional grocery and merchandise offerings, garden center and 24-hour gas station, the new pharmacy will offer the company's free prescription program as well as clinical services and immunizations. The prescription program includes leading oral generic antibiotics with a special focus on prescriptions most often filled for children, prenatal vitamins and medications for those with diabetes and high cholesterol.



The new supercenter will also offer more than 600 varieties of fresh produce, a meat department that offers neighborhood butcher shop service and a bakery that carries fresh bread baked four times a day.



Meijer now operates 204 supercenters and grocery stores throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky.