Looking to save money while shopping in the retail market? A common question that arises is whether Meijer is cheaper than Walmart. Being two giants in the industry, Meijer and Walmart have established their niches in the market. However, when it comes to pricing, how do they compare against each other?
This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you find the best deals by comparing these two juggernauts on various fronts.
In this article:
Is Meijer Cheaper Than Walmart? Detailed Explanation
Price Comparison Fundamentals
Before we dive into the specifics, it’s important to understand how to compare prices effectively. It’s not just about the sticker price but the value you get for your money. Bulk purchasing, for instance, can offer significant savings, but is it always the right move? We’ll explore the intricacies of price comparison to ensure you’re equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
Meijer’s Pricing Strategy
Meijer has always focused on providing a pleasant shopping experience with competitive pricing. Their strategy includes weekly ads, personalized deals through their mPerks program, and special promotions that can lead to substantial savings. But how does this strategy hold up against Walmart’s pricing?
Walmart’s Pricing Strategy
Walmart’s slogan, “Save Money. Live Better,” is a testament to its pricing strategy. Known for its rollback specials and everyday low prices, Walmart aims to be the price leader in the retail market. We’ll dissect their pricing model to see if they offer the lowest prices.
Product Range and Availability
The range of products available can significantly influence pricing. Meijer offers a wide variety of goods, from groceries to garden supplies. Walmart, with its Supercenters, also boasts an extensive product line. We’ll compare the two regarding product availability and how that affects their pricing.
Quality Considerations
Price isn’t the only factor consumers consider; quality also plays a crucial role. We’ll examine the quality of products at Meijer and Walmart and how it relates to their pricing. Does a lower price mean compromised quality, or can you have the best of both worlds?
Here is the cost comparison of the different categories that both Walmart and Meijer are offering at their store:
Tables of Price for Common Items Sold at Meijer and Walmart
Grocery
- Fresh Produce: Both stores offer a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables at competitive prices. However, Walmart may have a slight selection and overall value edge.
| Item | Meijer | Walmart | Difference | Winner |
| 6 bananas | $1.68 | $1.26 | $0.42 | Walmart |
| Celery | $2.19 | $2.36 | $0.17 | Meijer |
| Coleslaw Mix | $1.89 | $1.78 | $0.11 | Walmart |
| Potatoes | $2.99 | $3.67 | $0.68 | Meijer |
| Yellow Squash | $0.75 each | $0.89 each | $0.14 | Meijer |
| Cucumber | $0.69 each | $0.68 each | $0.01 | Walmart |
| Roma Tomato x4 | $1.00 | $1.16 | $0.16 | Meijer |
| Total | $11.19 | $11.80 | $0.61 | Meijer |
Overall, Winner
Meijer is the overall winner in terms of price for the everyday items listed above, with a total price of $11.19, which is $0.61 cheaper than Walmart’s full price of $11.80.
- Frozen Produce: Walmart typically has lower prices on frozen fruits and vegetables than Meijer.
| Item | Meijer | Walmart | Difference | Winner |
| 12oz bag of frozen broccoli | $2.49 | $1.99 | $0.50 | Walmart |
| 12oz bag of frozen mixed vegetables | $2.39 | $2.19 | $0.20 | Walmart |
| 12oz bag of frozen corn | $1.99 | $1.78 | $0.21 | Walmart |
| 16oz bag of frozen peas | $2.19 | $1.99 | $0.20 | Walmart |
| 16oz bag of frozen strawberries | $3.49 | $2.99 | $0.50 | Walmart |
| 16oz bag of frozen blueberries | $3.99 | $3.49 | $0.50 | Walmart |
| 24oz bag of frozen raspberries | $4.99 | $4.49 | $0.50 | Walmart |
| Total | $21.53 | $18.92 | $2.61 | Walmart |
Overall Winner
Walmart is the overall winner in terms of price for frozen produce, with a total price of $18.92, which is $2.61 cheaper than Meijer’s full price of $21.53.
- Meat & Seafood: Meijer is often the better choice for meat and seafood, as they offer a more comprehensive selection and higher quality products. However, Walmart may have lower prices on items like ground beef and chicken breasts.
| Item | Meijer | Walmart | Difference | Winner |
| 1lb ground beef | $4.99 | $3.99 | $1.00 | Walmart |
| 1lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts | $6.99 | $5.99 | $1.00 | Walmart |
| 1lb salmon fillets | $12.99 | $11.99 | $1.00 | Walmart |
| 1lb shrimp | $8.99 | $7.99 | $1.00 | Walmart |
| 1lb USDA Choice ribeye steak | $14.99 | $13.99 | $1.00 | Walmart |
| Total | $48.95 | $43.95 | $5.00 | Walmart |
Overall Winner
Walmart is the overall winner in terms of price for meat & seafood, with a total price of $43.95, which is $5.00 cheaper than Meijer’s full price of $48.95.
- Dairy Products: Prices for dairy products are generally similar at both stores. However, Meijer may have better deals on bulk items.
| Item | Meijer | Walmart | Difference | Winner |
| Gallon of whole milk | $3.99 | $3.49 | $0.50 | Walmart |
| Dozen large eggs | $2.99 | $2.49 | $0.50 | Walmart |
| 8oz block of cheddar cheese | $2.99 | $2.49 | $0.50 | Walmart |
| 16oz container of cottage cheese | $1.99 | $1.79 | $0.20 | Walmart |
| 8oz container of yogurt | $1.49 | $1.29 | $0.20 | Walmart |
| Total | $13.44 | $11.54 | $1.90 | Walmart |
Overall Winner
Walmart is the overall winner in price for dairy products, with a total price of $11.54, which is $1.90 cheaper than Meijer’s total price of $13.44.
- Dry Goods: Meijer is often the better choice for dry goods, as they offer a more comprehensive selection and lower prices.
| Item | Meijer | Walmart | Difference | Winner |
| 16oz bag of pasta | $1.49 | $1.29 | $0.20 | Walmart |
| 5lb bag of rice | $2.99 | $2.49 | $0.50 | Walmart |
| 15oz can of diced tomatoes | $0.99 | $0.89 | $0.10 | Walmart |
| 15oz can of corn | $0.99 | $0.89 | $0.10 | Walmart |
| 15oz can of black beans | $0.99 | $0.89 | $0.10 | Walmart |
| Total | $7.44 | $6.44 | $1.00 | Walmart |
Overall Winner
Walmart is the overall winner in terms of price for dry goods, with a total price of $6.44, which is $1.00 cheaper than Meijer’s total price of $7.44.
Household Essentials
- Paper Towels: Walmart typically has lower prices on paper towels than Meijer.
| Item | Meijer | Walmart | Difference | Winner |
| 6-pack of Bounty paper towels | $6.99 | $5.99 | $1.00 | Walmart |
| 12-pack of Angel Soft paper towels | $4.99 | $3.99 | $1.00 | Walmart |
| 12-pack of Brawny paper towels | $5.99 | $4.99 | $1.00 | Walmart |
| 12-pack of Kirkland Signature paper towels | $6.99 | $5.99 | $1.00 | Walmart |
| 12-pack of Scott paper towels | $4.99 | $3.99 | $1.00 | Walmart |
| Total | $29.95 | $24.95 | $5.00 | Walmart |
Overall Winner
Walmart is the overall winner in terms of price for paper towels, with a total price of $24.95, which is $5.00 cheaper than Meijer’s total price of $29.95.
- Cleaning Supplies: Walmart typically has lower prices on cleaning supplies than Meijer.
| Item | Meijer | Walmart | Difference | Winner |
| 28oz bottle of Windex glass cleaner | $2.99 | $2.49 | $0.50 | Walmart |
| 28oz bottle of Lysol disinfectant spray | $3.49 | $2.99 | $0.50 | Walmart |
| 24oz bottle of Clorox bleach | $2.99 | $2.49 | $0.50 | Walmart |
| 100-count pack of Mr. Clean Magic Eraser sponges | $3.99 | $2.99 | $1.00 | Walmart |
| 16oz bottle of Tide laundry detergent | $3.99 | $2.99 | $1.00 | Walmart |
| Total | $17.44 | $14.44 | $3.00 | Walmart |
Overall Winner
Walmart is the overall winner in terms of price for cleaning supplies, with a total price of $14.44, which is $3.00 cheaper than Meijer’s total price of $17.44.
- Beauty & Personal Care: Prices for beauty and personal care products are generally similar at both stores. However, Meijer may have better deals on bulk items and coupons.
| Item | Meijer | Walmart | Difference | Winner |
| 1oz bottle of Maybelline foundation | $9.99 | $7.99 | $2.00 | Walmart |
| 0.25oz tube of CoverGirl mascara | $7.99 | $5.99 | $2.00 | Walmart |
| 1oz bottle of L’Oreal lipstick | $9.99 | $7.99 | $2.00 | Walmart |
| 16oz bottle of Tresemme shampoo | $4.99 | $3.99 | $1.00 | Walmart |
| 16oz bottle of Tresemme conditioner | $4.99 | $3.99 | $1.00 | Walmart |
| Total | $37.94 | $28.94 | $9.00 | Walmart |
Overall Winner
Walmart is the overall winner in terms of price for beauty & personal care products, with a total price of $28.94, which is $9.00 cheaper than Meijer’s total price of $37.94.
Electronics
- Televisions: Walmart typically has lower prices on televisions than Meijer.
| Item | Meijer | Walmart | Difference | Winner | Quality |
| Samsung 50-inch 4K Smart TV | $699.99 | $599.99 | $100.00 (14.29%) | Walmart | High |
| LG 55-inch 4K Smart TV | $799.99 | $699.99 | $100.00 (12.50%) | Walmart | High |
| TCL 65-inch 4K Smart TV | $999.99 | $899.99 | $100.00 (10.00%) | Walmart | High |
| Hisense 75-inch 4K Smart TV | $1,199.99 | $1,099.99 | $100.00 (8.33%) | Walmart | High |
| Sony 85-inch 4K Smart TV | $1,499.99 | $1,399.99 | $100.00 (6.67%) | Walmart | High |
| Total | $5,198.95 | $4,998.95 | $200.00 (3.85%) | Walmart |
As you can see, Walmart is the overall winner in terms of price for televisions, with a total price of $4,998.95, which is cheaper than Meijer’s total price of $5,198.95 by a difference of $200 or approximately 3.85%. The quality of products at both stores is high.
- Sporting Goods & Fitness Accessories: Walmart typically has lower prices on sporting goods and fitness accessories than Meijer.
| Item | Meijer | Walmart | Difference | Percentage Difference | Winner | Quality at Store |
| Yoga Mat | $19.99 (Fitness) | $14.99 (Fitness) | $5.00 | 25% cheaper at Walmart | Walmart | Both stores offer good quality mats |
| Resistance Bands | $9.99 (Fitness) | $7.99 (Fitness) | $2.00 | 20% cheaper at Walmart | Walmart | Both stores offer durable bands |
| Dumbbells (pair) | $29.99 (Fitness) | $24.99 (Fitness) | $5.00 | 16.67% cheaper at Walmart | Walmart | Both stores offer sturdy dumbbells |
| Smart Fitness Tracker | $49.99 (Electronics) | $39.99 (Electronics) | $10.00 | 20% cheaper at Walmart | Walmart | Both stores offer reliable trackers |
| Running Shoes | $69.99 (Clothing) | $59.99 (Clothing) | $10.00 | 14.29% cheaper at Walmart | Walmart | Both stores offer comfortable shoes |
| Total | $179.95 | $147.95 | $32.00 | 17.78% cheaper at Walmart | Walmart | Both stores offer good quality products |
Overall Winner
Walmart is the overall winner in terms of price for sporting goods & fitness accessories, with a total price of $147.95, which is $41.00 cheaper than Meijer’s total price of $179.95.
Comparison Tables
Overall Winner
Walmart is the overall winner in terms of price for the everyday items listed above. However, Meijer is a good choice for customers looking for a more comprehensive selection and higher quality products in specific categories, such as meat and seafood.
| Item | Meijer | Walmart | Difference | Winner |
| Fresh Produce | Competitive | Slight edge | Meijer | Meijer |
| Frozen Produce | Higher | Lower | Walmart | Walmart |
| Meat & Seafood | Wider selection, higher quality | Lower prices on certain items | Meijer (overall), Walmart (certain items) | Walmart |
| Dairy Products | Similar | Similar | Both | Walmart |
| Dry Goods | Wider selection, Higher prices | Higher prices | Walmart | Walmart |
| Paper Towels | Higher | Lower | Walmart | Walmart |
| Cleaning Supplies | Higher | Lower | Walmart | Walmart |
| Beauty & Personal Care | Similar | Similar | Both | Walmart |
| Televisions | Higher | Lower | Walmart | Walmart |
| Google Chromecast | Higher | Lowest price | Walmart | Walmart |
| Sporting Goods & Fitness Accessories | Higher | Lower | Walmart | Walmart |
It is important to note that prices may vary depending on location and time of year. It is always a good idea to compare prices at both stores before purchasing.
You also like reading this: Publix vs Walmart: Which is cheaper for Groceries?
Location and Convenience
When it comes to convenience, both Meijer and Walmart have their strengths and weaknesses. Meijer has a smaller store footprint than Walmart, making it easier to navigate and find what you need quickly.
However, Meijer stores are typically located in more urban areas, while Walmart stores are often in suburban and rural areas. This means that Walmart may be more convenient for some shoppers, while Meijer may be more convenient for others.
Customer Experience
Meijer and Walmart offer customer service representatives who can help you find your needs and answer your questions. However, Walmart is known for having a more self-service shopping experience.
This means that you may have to wait longer for assistance at Walmart, but you may also be able to check out more quickly.
Meijer, on the other hand, is known for having a more personalized shopping experience. Meijer employees are typically more proactive in helping customers, and they may even offer to carry your groceries to your car.
Brand and Private Labels
Both Meijer and Walmart offer private labels, which are cheaper than name brands. Meijer’s private label brands include Kroger, Simple Truth, and HomeSense. Walmart’s private label brands include Equate, Great Value, and Marketside.
In general, Meijer’s private label brands are considered higher quality than Walmart’s private label brands. However, Walmart’s private-label brands are often cheaper.
Online Shopping and Delivery
Both Meijer and Walmart offer online shopping and delivery. Meijer’s online shopping platform is relatively new, offering a wide selection of products and competitive prices. Walmart’s online shopping platform is more established, offering a more comprehensive selection of products and delivery options.
Meijer offers free delivery on orders over $50. Walmart offers free delivery on orders over $35. However, Walmart also offers a variety of other delivery options, such as same-day delivery and curbside pickup.
Membership and Loyalty Programs
Loyalty programs can be a great way to save money on your groceries and other purchases. Meijer and Walmart offer loyalty programs but have different benefits and requirements.
Meijer’s Perks program is free to join and offers rewards such as discounts on fuel, groceries, and other items. You can earn points for every dollar you spend at Meijer and redeem points for discounts or gift cards.
Walmart Plus is a subscription program that costs $98 per year or $12.95 monthly. Walmart Plus members get free shipping on all online orders, unlimited free delivery on groceries and other items, and fuel discounts.
Which loyalty program is better?
It depends on your shopping habits and needs. The Meijer Perks program is a good option if you shop at Meijer often. It’s free to join, and you can earn points towards discounts and gift cards. Walmart Plus is a good option if you shop online frequently and want free delivery. However, it’s essential to consider the subscription cost before deciding if Walmart Plus is worth it.
Seasonal Sales and Events
Both Meijer and Walmart offer seasonal sales and events throughout the year. These sales can be a great way to save money on items like clothing, home goods, and electronics.
Meijer is known for its MPerks app, which offers exclusive deals and discounts to members. Walmart also has an app that offers deals and discounts, but they are not exclusive to members.
Which store has better seasonal sales and events?
It depends on the time of year and the specific items you’re looking for. Both Meijer and Walmart offer competitive seasonal sales and events. It’s a good idea to compare prices at both stores before you buy anything.
Return Policies and Guarantees
A good return policy can be important to many shoppers. Both Meijer and Walmart have generous return policies.
Meijer accepts returns on most items within 30 days of purchase. Walmart accepts returns on most items within 90 days of purchase.
Which store has a better return policy?
Walmart’s return policy is more generous than Meijer’s. Walmart accepts returns for a longer time, and they have a more comprehensive range of items that are eligible for return.
Sustainability and Community Impact
Consumers are increasingly considering the environmental and social impact of where they shop. Both Meijer and Walmart have made commitments to sustainability and community involvement.
Meijer has set a goal of reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2025. Walmart has set a goal of becoming a regenerative company by 2040.
Bonus tips:
- Sign up for Meijer’s MPerks program or Walmart’s Walmart+ program. These programs offer exclusive discounts and other benefits.
- Shop at Meijer on Wednesdays or Thursdays. Meijer typically has the best sales on these days.
- Shop at Walmart on Sundays. Walmart typically has the best sales on Sundays.
- Use the Meijer app or Walmart app to create a shopping list. This will help you stay on budget and avoid impulse purchases.
- Take advantage of Meijer’s fuel perks or Walmart’s fuel discounts. This can save you money on gas.
Final Words
Meijer and Walmart are two large retailers with similar prices but different strengths. Meijer is known for its clean stores, friendly staff, and wide selection of fresh produce and meat. Walmart is known for its low prices, vast selection of products, and convenience. Ultimately, the best way to choose between Meijer and Walmart is to consider your needs and preferences.
FAQs
How often do Meijer and Walmart have sales?
Both Meijer and Walmart have sales throughout the year. Meijer typically has weekly sales that run from Wednesday to Wednesday. Walmart typically has sales that run from Sunday to Sunday. Both stores also offer seasonal sales and events throughout the year.
Can I find exclusive brands at Meijer and Walmart?
Yes, both Meijer and Walmart have exclusive brands. Meijer’s exclusive brands include Kroger, Simple Truth, and HomeSense. Walmart’s exclusive brands include Equate, Great Value, and Marketside.
Are there any benefits to shopping online with Meijer or Walmart?
Yes, there are several benefits to shopping online with Meijer or Walmart. Both stores offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount. Meijer offers free shipping on orders over $50. Walmart offers free shipping on orders over $35. Both stores also offer curbside pickup and same-day delivery options.
How do Meijer and Walmart’s return policies compare?
Meijer and Walmart both have generous return policies. Meijer accepts returns on most items within 30 days of purchase. Walmart accepts returns on most items within 90 days of purchase. However, there are some exceptions to these policies. For example, Meijer does not accept returns on fresh produce or meat, and Walmart does not accept returns on electronics.
What are the best ways to save money at Meijer and Walmart?
Here are some tips for saving money at Meijer and Walmart:
- Shop the sales and events. Both Meijer and Walmart regularly offer sales and events. You can check their websites and apps to see what’s on sale before you shop.
- Use coupons and promo codes. Both Meijer and Walmart offer coupons and promo codes. You can find coupons in their weekly circulars, on their websites, and in their apps.
- Compare prices. Before you buy anything, compare prices at both Meijer and Walmart. You can use a price comparison app to make this easier.
- Buy in bulk. If you buy certain items often, consider buying them in bulk. This can save you money in the long run.
- Use a loyalty program. Both Meijer and Walmart offer loyalty programs that can save you money on your purchases.
