Walmart is investing over $9 billion in upgrading more than 1,400 stores: What changes are being made?
Giant retailer Walmart is investing $9 billion over two years to upgrade more than 1,400 of its stores. What improvements can customers expect to see?
Retail giant Walmart has announced an investment exceeding $9 billion that will be spent over a two-year span. The funds will be used to enhance and modernize select US stores, focusing on improved layouts, expanded product offerings, and the integration of new technological features.
A total of 117 stores spanning 30 states have undergone a re-launch to showcase these new features, reflecting investments exceeding $500 million. The company aims to modernize over 1,400 of its stores nationwide. It will not be extending these remodels to its warehouse club chain, Sam’s Club.
These improvements come on the heels of the closure of multiple Walmart stores in various parts of the country. Despite the closures, the company achieved record-breaking sales last year, passing the $600 billion mark.
Job opportunities and customer service
John Furner, CEO of Walmart’s US business, stated that these infrastructure investments facilitate the creation of additional local employment opportunities and streamline the process for associates to fulfill customer demands promptly.
The mega-store’s competitively priced and margin-efficient grocery offerings have proven highly appealing to Americans grappling with significant inflation in food prices, which have affected staples like eggs and chocolate over the past two years.
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Walmart ready to change image
The retailer is now aiming to shift its image beyond being solely a steep discounter. It seeks to position itself as a place where customers can also shop for stylish home goods and clothing.
The company has experimented with remodeled concept stores referred to as “Stores of the Future” at select Walmart Supercenters in the earlier part of this year. Company executives have indicated that the concept proved successful.
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What changes are being made?
The upgraded stores will feature revitalized interiors and exteriors, incorporating new paint, updated flooring, modernized restrooms, LED lighting, and improved signage to enhance brightness and facilitate easier navigation. Customers will enjoy expanded checkout choices, including both staffed lanes and self-checkout areas, along with an increased selection of ready-to-go food and beverage options within the grocery sections.
Customers can also expect larger pharmacies, complete with private screening rooms for pharmacist consultations. Digital screens and QR codes will also be implemented to provide information about Walmart’s online services.