Rafael Grillo

Is Wal-Mart Trying to Lure the Rich?

Great article. A few months ago, I wrote an article in my blog entitled "Wal-Mart: more than just low prices?" where I discussed the efforts Wal-Mart is making to lure more affluent consumers. When you think about its fundamental proposition, Wal-Mart should the sensible shopping alternative for most people. What Wal-Mart has failed to recognize and change, though, is that the fundamental barrier they have to expand their franchise is not advertising or assortment. It is the absolutely sordid shopping experience you have to endure at the place. The dark, disordered shops, the excruciatingly long lines and the dwindling numbers of under-paid, over-worked and apathetic associates who can't tell you much more than the time of the day. Unless Wal-Mart seriously addresses the shopping experience it delivers, those horrified looks will not go away.