Meijer

Meijer is a privately owned retail chain known for its supercenters, which bring together groceries and general merchandise in a single location. The company was founded in 1934 by Hendrik Meijer in Greenville, Michigan, starting as a small grocery store during the Great Depression. A key milestone in Meijer’s history came in 1962 with the launch of its first Thrifty Acres store in Grand Rapids, widely recognized as the origin of the modern supercenter format that blends food and general retail under one roof.

As of November 2025, Meijer operates 259 supercenters across Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Its strongest presence remains in Michigan, but the company has steadily increased its footprint throughout the Midwest, particularly over the past five years. This recent period has seen Meijer focus on new store development and the ongoing modernization of existing locations, with a clear emphasis on sites within established retail corridors and mixed-use environments.

Meijer’s stores serve as prominent anchors in both urban and suburban settings, offering a broad selection of products that range from fresh groceries to apparel, electronics, home goods, and fuel. The company remains fully owned by the Meijer family through Meijer Companies LTD., allowing it to pursue long-term strategies and maintain consistency in its operations and expansion plans.

Over the past several years, Meijer has prioritized growth in its core Midwest markets, seeking opportunities in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Its approach to expansion and store modernization has reinforced its reputation as a stable and adaptable retail partner, with formats that suit a variety of development types and community needs. Meijer’s scale, commitment to quality, and track record of serving as a reliable anchor tenant continue to make it a significant presence in the region’s commercial real estate landscape.