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Supermarket chain Meijer to host summit for Black producers

As part of its ongoing initiative for supplier diversity, Meijer is hosting a one-day Black Business Month Summit to generate opportunities and establish connections between Black business owners and Meijer merchants, according to a press release issued Thursday.

Organized by the Meijer Supplier Diversity Team, the Summit will be held Aug. 16 at the retailer’s corporate headquarters in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

“In celebration of Black Business Month this August, the Summit is aimed to highlight the achievements, contributions, and economic impact made by Black entrepreneurs and business owners,” Carla Hendon, Director of Supplier Diversity, said in a statement. “This event also gives Black-owned businesses the opportunity to demonstrate the quality, uniqueness, and value of their products directly to our buyers.”

Participating Black vendors can expect:

  • A virtual mentorship preparation call on July 17, which will provide valuable insights and guidance on how to effectively prepare for the event.
  • An in-person booth display exhibit for their business during the summit.
  • Allotted time to meet one-on-one with Meijer merchants to pitch products, address questions, and receive direct feedback.

The Summit is open to all potential and existing U.S. vendors, as well as growing vendors looking to expand their brand into larger Meijer stores. Interested black-owned businesses that manufacture or grow retail-ready products can register here by July 14.

Those with questions can email diversevend.diversevend@meijer.com.