A Byron Center company can thank a local retailer for its rapid expansion.

Meijer Inc.’s commitment to supply its 223 stores with Michigan-grown poinsettias has helped expand Masterpiece Flower Company throughout the past 50 years. Currently, Masterpiece is adding eight loading docks to its distribution warehouse.

With Meijer’s distribution the third-generation, family-owned Bryon Center company has seen its poinsettias shipped to cities such as Chicago, Indianapolis, Milwaukee and Louisville.

“We’ve been fortunate to grow as Meijer has grown,” Masterpiece partner Paul Bouma said in a press release. “Meijer supporting local growers means everything to us. Each poinsettia, each potted plant, each Easter lily that’s sold means more jobs for our local community, and we’re really excited and honored to be able to serve the community in that manner.”

Last year, Masterpiece added on to its greenhouse. Five years ago, Masterpiece purchased an additional greenhouse in Wisconsin to serve that market.

Among the reasons the partnership has worked so well is innovation and quality, such as Masterpiece’s development of the smaller, hybrid princettia, said Bill Stechebar, Meijer merchandise manager of garden. The princettia comes in a variety of vibrant colors exclusively for Meijer.

“We work really well with the growers at Masterpiece to introduce new products to our customers,” Stechebar said. “They deserve the very best, and thanks to the Meijer partnership with Masterpiece, that’s exactly what they are getting.”

Meijer’s partnership with Masterpiece started when Thrifty Acres purchased geraniums for the garden center. Now, the company provides Meijer with potted plants twice a week, every week of the year.

“Meijer is a strong supporter of local growers and businesses, and that commitment goes beyond the grocery and produce aisles,” said Peter Whitsett, Meijer executive vice president of merchandising and marketing. “Our partnership with Masterpiece Flower Company has grown through the years because they are just as committed to quality as we are. It’s encouraging that our partnership has allowed their company to expand.”