Meijer

Meijer is one of the biggest retailers in the state of Michigan and they are committed to continual improvement through environmental-focused innovations that benefit its customers and our communities. In fact, they’re closer than ever to hitting their goal of diverting 70% of generated waste from landfills. Mike Gray and Erik Petrovskis, sustainability professionals at Meijer, explained how Meijer cultivates a circular ecosystem in which everyone–including customers–actively help turn waste into resources.

A wide range of materials like plastic, cardboard, and metals are bought and sold at Meijer stores across Michigan and are collected for recycling by employees. Meijer team members of all ages bring positive recycling behaviors from their homes and communities to their work, but young employees are especially passionate about this aspect of their job.. 

Meijer partners with programs like Flashfood, which works with retailers to upload surplus close-dated grocery items to its app for up to 50 percent off, offering consumers great deals on groceries while diverting food waste.  Meijer also offers plastic film recycling with front-of-house receptacles for used grocery bags and other films. 

Meijer has witnessed firsthand the benefits of recycling and waste diversion across its organization. From a business perspective, recycling valuable materials like cardboard and metal lowers disposal costs while generating additional revenue. The company is also committed to reducing food waste by donating to community gardens and food banks, demonstrating how large retailers can positively impact local communities. Additionally, the retailer’s waste diversion efforts enhance employee morale and foster a culture of sustainability in its stores.

To reach and exceed their 70% waste diversion goal, Meijer pledges to expand food waste diversion, raise awareness about in-store film recycling programs, and encourage customers to use reusable bags when they shop. They’ll also continue to invest in unique solutions to create a waste-free Michigan, like further investing in beach cleaning robot technologies that have already collected plastic from over twenty locations. Thanks for being a leader in Michigan’s circular journey, Meijer!