Aging stores get fresh service message: core discount division hones the concept to meet communities' needs - Wal-Mart Stores

Discount Store News, Feb 19, 1996 by Pete Hisey

The inkblotter is filling up, and Wal-Mart, which has spent the past 25 years resolutely marching from market to market, is reaching the point of declining returns in its venerable discount store division. Although the company says that the United States still has room for another 500 units, that is debatable. Within a year or two, the number of stores replaced by or converted to supercenters will overtake the number of new discount department stores, resulting in negative growth for the division.

Nevetheless, the stores will remain a potent force in the Wal-Mart arsenal for at least another decade and the company, after neglecting them somewhat to concentrate on supercenters and clubs, is refocusing the mission of its cash cows.

Wal-Mart is rapidly increasing its service component within the division. Borrowing from experience with its supercenter and Sam's Club operations, the chain has added mailing centers at many newer stores and has rolled out upscale hair care salons in its larger stores. In addition, it's testing computer

Wal-Mart Stores
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