Grand Rapids, Mich.-based Meijer said it will unveil a smaller-format grocery-focused store in Niles, Ill., a Chicago suburb. The new Meijer store, slated for opening during the first quarter of 2010, will be 102,000 square feet and offer groceries, a pharmacy and some general merchandise. Many of the grocery items will be geared toward the diverse Niles community.

“For several years, we have worked hard throughout the Midwest to offer specific grocery items that are relevant to the unique customer base in the communities we service,” said Mark Murray, Meijer’s president. “The Niles community is represented by a variety of cultures, and we are thrilled to be able to serve them.”