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The History of Meijer in Oak Creek
Meijer is a prominent American supercenter chain headquartered in Walker, Michigan. Founded in 1934 by Dutch immigrant Hendrik Meijer, the company began as a modest grocery store in Greenville, Michigan, during the Great Depression. Hendrik, a local barber, ventured into the grocery business to serve his community’s needs. His 14-year-old son, Frederik Meijer, was among the first employees and later became the company’s chairman. The Meijer family continues to lead the company, maintaining its status as a privately held enterprise.
In 1962, Meijer revolutionized retail by introducing the “Thrifty Acres” concept in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This innovative model combined groceries and general merchandise under one roof, pioneering the supercenter format in the United States. The success of Thrifty Acres led to rapid expansion throughout Michigan and neighboring states. By the 1970s, Meijer had established a significant presence in the Midwest, offering a one-stop shopping experience that included groceries, clothing, electronics, and more.
Over the decades, Meijer continued to grow, emphasizing customer service, community involvement, and innovation. The company introduced features like 24-hour store operations and integrated pharmacies, enhancing convenience for shoppers. As of 2023, Meijer operates over 250 supercenters and grocery stores across Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, and Wisconsin, employing approximately 70,000 team members.
Meijer’s expansion into Wisconsin marked a significant milestone in its growth strategy. In 2015, the company opened its first stores in the state, including a location in Oak Creek’s Drexel Town Square. This development transformed a former industrial site into a vibrant mixed-use community featuring retail, residential, and civic spaces. Meijer’s Oak Creek store, situated at 171 W. Town Square Way, became a cornerstone of this revitalization effort.
The Oak Creek Meijer store officially opened on August 4, 2015, alongside another new location in Wauwatosa. These openings were part of Meijer’s broader initiative to establish a presence in the Wisconsin market. The Oak Creek store offers a comprehensive shopping experience, including fresh produce, groceries, apparel, electronics, and household goods, aligning with Meijer’s supercenter model.
