Meijer launches meal program supporting local restaurants

Meijer is doing its part to help local restaurants with a new initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer debuted a Buy Local meal program, which not only shows appreciation for its team members, but also supports local restaurants during a time when it's needed most.

“Our teams are working hard every day to ensure our stores are clean and fully stocked, so our customers can find what they need for their families,” Meijer president and CEO Rick Keyes said. “This initiative is just one of the ways we are trying to show them just how much we appreciate their dedication, while also providing an opportunity to support important small businesses in the communities we serve.”

Each of Meijer’s 248 supercenters, grocery stores and distribution facilities participated in the initiative by partnering with local and independent eateries in their communities to purchase meals from them for its team members.

“Our hearts are SO FULL,” wrote Louie Angelo's, a restaurant near Elgin, Ill., on its Facebook page. “THANK YOU @meijer for supporting Louie Angelo's during these difficult times!! Your commitment to small, local businesses like ours makes an enormous impact. We feel so honored to provide meals to all your selfless, hardworking employees!”

The Buy Local meal program will continue for the next few weeks across the communities the retailer serves.

“All of us at Meijer are proud to serve our communities, and we will continue to work through these challenging times together,” Keyes said.