Meijer takes LED plunge

Meijer is piloting a new approach to store lighting.



The retailer's remodeled store in Beavercreek, Ohio, is its first-ever location to feature 100% LED lighting. The LEDs, from GE, are expected to save more than a half million kilowatt hours of electricity annually.



The new lighting is part of an extensive $50 million remodeling project that Meijer is undertaking at four supercenters in the Dayton market. According to Meijer, the GE LEDs deployed in the store are 30% more efficient than traditional lighting, with a 50% longer lifespan.



"We look forward to the newer technology reducing both energy usage as well as required maintenance for the store," said Mitch Boucher, engineering and construction director, Meijer, which operates 222 supercenters and grocery stores in the Midwest.



Work on the Beavercreek store and the three other Dayton-area stores being remodeled began in April, and is being completed in multiple phases to allow the stores to remain open during construction. The project is due to be completed in early November. The remodeled sites will boast a new facade, drive-through pharmacy, wider aisles and enhanced floor plans.



The LED lights in the Beavercreek store are being used for all exterior and interior lighting, including all ceiling illumination, refrigeration and deli cases, and parking lot fixtures. The location is considered a test store for the LED lighting and could be used as a model for future construction, Meijer said.