Meijer to showcase products by local Black, Indigenous and people of color

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GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Meijer has announced that it will showcase products from businesses owned by Black, Indigenous and people of color in a partnership with Start Garden, the grocery retailer tells us.

We’re told the in-person event will span multiple days with focus placed on these categories: general merchandise; and apparel, footwear and accessories.

Eligible businesses with products adhering to the aforementioned categories may apply here before the deadline on Friday, Aug. 27.

“Our supplier diversity efforts represent an ongoing commitment to our customers and team members to offer products and invest in partnerships that represent them and their communities,” says Meijer’s Merchandising and Marketing Executive Vice President Peter Whitsett. “We look forward to expanding our product assortment and creating a positive economic impact in our communities through this event.”

Meijer and Start Garden will review all submissions and determine which businesses will take part in the event this September, according to Meijer.

From there, Meijer will grant opportunities for businesses that are prepared to expand their products to Meijer stores, the retailer explains.

Businesses that do not qualify for the showcase are encouraged to submit their information here.

Click here to learn more about Meijer’s efforts toward diversity and inclusion.

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Shannon Cohen products available at Meijer

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A recent partnership between Meijer and Shannon Cohen Inc. means shoppers at 230 Meijer stores can add inspiration to their weekly shopping haul.

Cohen’s Tough Skin, Soft Heart line of affirmation-based greeting cards, books, stickers, journals and mugs now are available in nearly all Meijer stores and on Meijer.com.

“People are still recovering from the pressures, pains and problems exacerbated by COVID-19,” Cohen said. “More than ever we need inspiration accessible where people naturally shop, live and gather … that’s what makes our partnership with Meijer so special.”

Cohen launched her Tough Skin, Soft Heart brand five years ago. Her products carry messages like “Girl, You Have Greatness in Your Bones,” “You Are Loved,” “Growth Looks Good on You” and “I Can, I Will, I Matter, I’m Enough and I Got This.”

Meijer Card & Party Buyer Cynthia Brown said the retailer is especially pleased to be carrying Cohen’s Tough Skin, Soft Heart line because of the unique perspective and passion the local Grand Rapids entrepreneur brings to her products.

“At Meijer, we aim to truly be a one-stop shop for our customers, which is why it makes sense to carry Shannon Cohen products,” Brown said. “These products are uplifting for our customers, and we are confident they will walk out happy to have found a little extra inspiration on our shelves.”

Holland’s southside Meijer unveils new look, experience

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HOLLAND — One of Holland’s largest grocery stores has completed a full-scale interior and exterior renovation.

The southside Meijer, 746 E. 16th St., has a footprint of over 220,000 square feet. That space has been revamped and updated to improve layout and offerings.

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The grocery section has been expanded, and the bakery, deli, meat and seafood areas have been updated. The project began after the holiday season in 2020, when customers noticed large shipping containers in the store’s parking lot.

The remodel also includes new break room furniture for employees, a refreshed bottle return and a new pharmacy — including an additional drive-thru lane. Shoppers will notice a larger selection of grocery items and a revamped pet department.

The exterior of the store has a new facade and the gas station has been updated.

“As soon as you pull into our parking lot, you’ll notice the difference,” store director Elvir Tabakovic told The Sentinel in January. “We’re excited to add this to the Holland community.”

— Contact reporter Cassandra Lybrink at cassandra.lybrink@hollandsentinel.com. Follow her on Instagram @BizHolland.