Meijer seeks Midwest artisans for Frederik's line of gourmet fare

Meijer is calling on Midwest chefs and culinary artisans as it is looking to showcase products in a special "Midwest Made" packaging of its Frederik's by Meijer brand of elevated fare.

The Grand Rapids, Michigan-based Meijer debuted its Frederik's by Meijer line of premium and innovative food in 2021, which reflects the unique vision of its namesake, Fred Meijer, the retailer's co-founder and creator of the first-ever "one-stop-shopping" experience, Meijer said in a statement.

"Frederik's makes high-quality, innovative and unique foods accessible to our customers for those moments when they're looking to make dining memorable," said Peter Whitsett, Meijer EVP of merchandising and marketing. "We're excited to use Frederik's to highlight locally crafted products that show off the culinary talent and ingenuity found in our communities."

To qualify, makers must offer retail-ready products made in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky or Wisconsin that embody high-quality ingredients, Meijer said in a statement.

Applicants must submit their products via the retailer's partner, RangeMe, by Oct. 21. The Meijer Team will then select finalists to attend a training session before pitching their products live to Meijer merchants at an in-person event this fall.

"We're always looking to support local businesses and build partnerships that will invest back into the economies of the communities we serve," said Carla Hendon, director of supplier diversity and indirect procurement. "This opportunity is particularly special because it gives us the chance to find niche culinary experiences and bring them to our customers on a larger scale."

Looking to cater to customers in need of speed and convenience, Meijer last month debuted its new line of restaurant-style, single-serve Crafted Market heat-and-eat meals.