Wal-Mart, the little shop around the corner
I have to psych myself up for a trip to Wal-Mart. I try to plan trips when there are specific things I need, because usually it’s a very draining experience. The parking lot is perpetually packed and the crowd gets to me. It’s usually worth it when I go because of the savings, but it’s just not a relaxing experience.
Apparently, the company has had what they call “Neighborhood Markets” in certain areas of the country for about 10 years. Now they are redesigining these stores to reflect what they are learning from consumers about what they need and want.
With 112 stores already operating across the U.S., the Wal-Mart Neighborhood Market is the company’s youngest store concept (introduced less than 10 years ago), providing consumers the Wal-Mart value in a smaller, convenient “neighborhood? store format. The concept brings grocery, pharmacy and health and beauty together in a convenient, customer-friendly experience.
The new design gives each department it’s own feel, sort of a “store within a store” with warm colors and softer lighting. These photos are from the opening of the new concept store in Tulsa, Oklahoma on January 17th. They have expanded and redesigned the beauty department, for a completely new, more upscale look. The deli and bakery are also revamped to focus more on freshness.
It’s interesting. After years and years of big stores getting bigger, Wal-Mart is now finding out that consumers like me may sometimes prefer a smaller store. It’s less stressful, feels more convenient, and if it offers the same value as the big stores then I would definitely make more frequent trips. Pretty smart.
Wal-Mart, Neighborhood Market, New Retail Concepts
July 11th, 2010 at 4:20 am
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July 20th, 2010 at 3:42 pm
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