Meijer Unveils Smaller Format Design

Supercenter pioneer Meijer will test the potential of a scaled-down prototype with the 2010 opening of a 102,000-square-foot store in suburban Chicago. Roughly half the size of most of the company’s 189 “one-stop-shop” locations, the Meijer in Niles, Ill. will focus primarily on grocery and pharmacy items—particularly foods and beverages geared toward the diverse local community. Some general merchandise will still be on offer.

The new design opens up growth opportunities for the Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer, says Hank Meijer, co-chairman and ceo. “This store represents a new approach to the way we go to market,” he says. It also builds on the company’s efforts in recent years “to offer specific grocery items that are relevant to the unique customer base” in communities surrounding its stores, Meijer adds.