Fitting a Big Box in a Smaller Box

Ann-Marie Vazzano

Walmart is increasing its number of smaller-format stores with the hopes of drawing more customers for “fill-in” trips between bigger shopping trips. The company expects to add 270 to 300 small stores during the coming fiscal year, doubling its initial plan for 120 to 150 small stores.

“Customers’ needs and expectations are changing. They want to shop when they want and how they want, and we are transforming our business to meet their expectations,” Bill Simon, Walmart U.S. president and CEO said in a press release.

The smaller Neighborhood Market stores are doing well with steady sales increases and Walmart says fresh and pharmacy product categories are driving the sales.   

Walmart currently operates 346 Neighborhood Markets and 20 Walmart Express stores. GP