Meijer gets on board with Nickel Plate Express support

By AIDA KARIM
news@readthereporter.com

Supporting local business comes with its endless benefits.

Meijer officially handed over a check, solidifying their partnership with the Nickel Plate Express (NPX) last Thursday, June 18, at Hobbs Station, 825 Forest Park Drive, Noblesville. The sponsorship money will go directly toward preserving the historic railway over the course of this year.

The Reporter spoke with NPX Executive Director Emily Reynolds, NPX Board President Christine DeJoy, and Mejier Store Directors Brandon Davis and Chad Clarke.

Reynolds told The Reporter the NPX operates as a non-profit, with the premiere goal of the organization being to protect and preserve the oldest surviving railroad in Indiana.

NPX strives to provide cost-friendly educational experiences to children, showing the community the living history of such a significant landmark. Meaningful sponsorships like the Meijer partnership help keep ticket prices down for the community.

“The money goes right back into that car and keeps it running for the year, whether that’s new seating, and whether that’s flooring upgrades, lighting upgrades,” Reynolds said.

President DeJoy said NPX is looking to further develop the railbikes, repairing tracks further north. The sponsorship money goes directly to support these critical initiatives.

In terms of the benefits that Meijer reaps from the sponsorship, Reynolds said NPX makes sure Meijer gains a lot of exposure on the railway.

As part of the sponsorship, Meijer receives naming rights over one of the train cars.

“We make sure everybody hears that it’s the Meijer dining car, which is our top-of-the-line car. We let people know this is the best seating on the whole train,” Reynolds said. “We use their name on our ticketing, on our website, and try to make sure everybody knows that Meijer is a fantastic community supporter.”

According to Store Director Davis, Meijer strongly prioritizes supporting local, family businesses.

“It really matters what organization we give the money to,” Davis said.

Store Director Clarke said it’s important for their team to go out and see their name involved with amazing family, community-oriented initiatives.

Reynolds said she doesn’t want to underestimate the impact sponsorships can have on the operations of NPX.

“The money helps us keep the history alive and keep the cars in good shape, just bringing families in to have that experience,” Reynolds said.