Meijer now spends $100 million on local produce

Meijer Inc.’s annual investments in local produce have grown to $100 million, according to the Grand Rapids, Mich., retailer.

Within the six states that it operates, Meijer sources from 125 local growers, which is a 25% increase from the number of participating farmers two years ago.

“Meijer has a longstanding commitment to buying local. It started back in 1934 with Fred and Hendrik buying watermelons and bringing them back so they had the freshest possible product,” Jerry Suter, VP of fresh merchandising, said in a video showcasing some of the retailers local growers.

“We do business with over 125 farmers. And the key to that is the speed in which we bring it from the farm through our distribution center and deliver it to every day into our stores. So as we turn our product, we’re constantly bringing fresh product in every day.”

In a press release, Suter added, “Not only is buying local produce the right thing to do, it’s what our customers want and deserve.”

Watch the full video below: