Meijer said Thursday that since formalizing its program to grow its selection of Black-owned brands in 2021, it has grown the number of Black-owned brands that it sells by nearly 35 percent.
When a certified diverse supplier joins Meijer, its Supplier Inclusion team provides onboarding, training, and networking events that demonstrate how to do business with Meijer and how to grow within the retailer's six state footprint and three store formats, according to the retailer.
Called the Meijer Grow Academy, the program helps diverse businesses by presenting foundational material on brand strategy, marketing, product packaging, operating processes, and distribution capabilities, among other topics, according to Meijer. Suppliers also receive 1:1 coaching from Meijer buyers, Supplier Inclusion, and other business teams to help them strengthen their business in reaching more customers.
"The Meijer Supplier Inclusion program not only showcases new, diverse brands, but also prioritizes growing existing brands within our various store formats and locations," said Carla Hendon, director of supplier inclusion at Meijer, in a statement. "I'm incredibly proud of our team for their ongoing commitment to the small business community and providing a positive space for all entrepreneurs to grow and thrive."
During Black History Month, Meijer said that a curated product offering from Black-owned brands will be prominently displayed in all locations throughout February. The collection spans various categories, including grocery, health & beauty, and home.
Food brands include:
BLK & BOLD: Founded by two best friends in Des Moines, Iowa, this premium coffee brand gives 5 percent back to nonprofits focused on children in need. Before going national, Meijer was one of its first major retail partners.
Mushroom Angel Company: Founded in Detroit by a husband and wife, this brand makes frozen, plant-based food.
Goode Foods: Also a family business, this all-natural, sugar-free canned bean and vegetable product is made in Arlington Heights, Illinois.
Mrs. Pruitt's CHA CHA: A variety of special relish blends.
Creamalicious: An artesian ice cream brand inspired by soul food desserts based in Cincinnati.
Black-owned businesses that are interested in partnering with Meijer can visit the Meijer VendorNet. Meijer Supplier Inclusion programs are open to all diverse, non-diverse, and local vendors.
To learn more about the retailer's supplier inclusion efforts, visit its Supplier Inclusion hub.
Related: How Diversity Buying Works at Meijer, UNFI; Meijer Expands Veteran Supplier Inclusion Efforts.