Meijer announced Thursday that is was transitioning its nearly 200 retail stores to new meat departments, with Meijer brand Certified Angus Beef at the heart of the transition.

The company said in a news release that its meat department would begin to more closely resemble a traditional butcher shop, with certified meat cutters and full-service meat counters.

It also will exclusive serve Certified Angus Beef, beef graded higher than USDA Prime, Select and Choice, the release said. Meijer claims to be the first retailer in the Midwest to exclusively serve Certified Angus Beef, and will price it at USDA Choice levels.

"Meijer is always looking for ways to improve our customers' shopping experience, and by making our meat department more like a traditional butcher shop, we are ensuring the best service for our customers," said Jerry Suter, vice president of fresh merchandise.