Meijer’s tests lower prices on food near its best-before date at Metro Detroit stores

‘Reducing food waste is an important goal at Meijer,’ said Erik Petrovskis

Produce at a grocery store (WDIV)

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – In an effort to cut down on in-store food waste, Meijer is partnering with Toronto-based Flashfood to test an app at a handful of its Metro Detroit stores that allows customers to purchase food nearing its best-buy date at a reduced price.

“There are creative solutions throughout a food’s life cycle that can reduce landfill use and production of greenhouse gases," said Meijer’s environmental compliance and sustainability director, Erik Petrovskis. "I’m pleased we’re looking at another in-store option that benefits our customers.”

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According to the company, customers can purchase close-dated fresh food items -- including meat, produce, seafood, deli and bakery products -- on the Flashfood app at up to 50 percent off.

The program is being tested at Brighton, Waterford, Commerce Township and Howell Meijer stores. The purchased food will be stored in a refrigerator or storage rack located in the front of each of the Meijer until picked up by the customer.

“Food is at the core of what we do, and we are constantly looking at ways to minimize in-store waste," said Don Sanderson, with Meijer. “It’s the right thing to do for our communities and our customers.”

"Meijer is a well-respected market leader focusing on innovation and it’s evident through our partnership. Both teams are thrilled about the impact we’re bringing to market in this pilot,” said Flashfood CEO Josh Domingues.


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Dane is a producer and media enthusiast. He previously worked freelance video production and writing jobs in Michigan, Georgia and Massachusetts. Dane graduated from the Specs Howard School of Media Arts.